The American Legion Boys State of Missouri, Inc.

One idea paramount above any other at Missouri Boys State: That the individual is the one with the power to change the world. Whether athlete or politician, journalist or scientist, each and every one of us has the power to make a difference in the world.

Missouri Boys State and Missouri Girls State educate rising high school seniors on American democracy while also developing character and leadership skills. Participants build a democratic government from the ground up at the city, county, and state levels. They participate in a week-long, college-level course in a chosen subject area, hear from distinguished guest speakers, run for office, vote, and engage in athletic competitions – all while celebrating and strengthening American democracy. 

The programs have helped Missouri youths prepare for engaged citizenship for more than 80 years. Nationally, the Boys State movement was founded by the American Legion in 1935 to counter the socialist Young Pioneer Camps in the USSR. The first Missouri Boys State program took place in 1938, and Missouri Girls State was founded two years later. The American Legion Department of Missouri and the American Legion Auxiliary sponsor the programs.  

We expect 1,600 young men and women to attend the 2024 session from June 22 to 29 on the campus of Lindenwood University in St. Charles. A $500 participation fee covers programmatic costs, including food, housing, and transportation for the eight-day experience. A team of more than 200 adult volunteers – many of whom are program alumni and leaders in government, politics, business, and academia – serve as counselors.  

Of the 1,600 participants this summer, we anticipate that 611 (or 38%) will represent 94 high schools across the St. Louis metro area. The program is held on campus at Lindenwood University June 22-29, 2024.