Beginning with our 2026 session, the program will officially operate under the name American Legion Evergreen Boys & Girls State. This marks an important transition from an all-male program to a fully inclusive, co-educational experience. The change reflects our commitment to making the program more relevant, accessible, and engaging for today’s high school students.

We believe that preparing future leaders means giving all eligible students—regardless of gender—the opportunity to learn about government, leadership, and civic responsibility together, just like they do in real life.

By updating our format, we ensure that the program mirrors the diverse, collaborative environments students will encounter in college, careers, and public service. This change builds on decades of success while modernizing the experience to better meet the needs and expectations of the next generation.

Evergreen Boys & Girls State is conducted each year at the Warm Beach Camp and Conference Center in Stanwood, Washington. The next session will be held the week of June 21st – 27th, 2026.

Any high school junior (typically a 16-17 year old finishing 11th grade) can attend. You don’t need to be class president or have any special title – just the passion to learn and lead. Some delegates are nominated by a teacher, counselor, or local American Legion post, but you can also apply directly. If you’re a junior ready to make a difference, you’re exactly who we want at Evergreen Boys & Girls State!

Absolutely! No prior political experience is required. Many participants start out shy, reserved, or unsure of their interests. By the end of the week, they’re the ones saying it was “so much fun” and that they discovered confidence they didn’t know they had. There’s no partisan agenda here – it’s about learning how things work and finding your own leadership style. Even if you’ve never run for anything before, you’ll get plenty of guidance. You’ll be shocked at how much you grow in an environment where everyone wants you to succeed.

You can easily begin your registration process online by completing our application form. Simply head to the ‘Apply’ section on our website and fill out your details. Once your application is screened, we will help locate a sponsor (if financial support is needed) and guide you thru the registration process.

The week-long program (including meals and housing) is valued at $700. Upon request, local American Legion Posts will sponsor a student by paying $350 to help defray the cost of attending.  

We’re committed to allowing every qualified student to participate regardless of family finances – if you need assistance, just let us know. Generous financial aid is available up to the full $700 cost, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience Evergreen Boys & Girls State. Thanks to our sponsors, cost is not a barrier.

Absolutely! We encourage participants to bring friends who are also interested in learning and growing as leaders. The more, the merrier!

No. ALA Evergreen Girls State is a completely separate program, organized and run by the American Legion Auxiliary. It operates independently and is not affiliated with American Legion Evergreen Boys & Girls State, which is conducted by the American Legion Department of Washington.

While both programs share a common purpose – teaching high school students about civic engagement, government, and leadership – they are managed by different organizations, held at different locations, and have different application processes, schedules, and program structures.

If you’re interested in ALA Evergreen Girls State and Girls Nation, we recommend contacting the American Legion Auxiliary Department of Washington directly for details about their program.