The Daily Delegate

By Xcaret Calderon

February 16, 2025

For Jason Servellon, the head advisor from the Ketchum Downtown YMCA, a Youth & Government session is more than just a conference–it’s a whirlwind of responsibility, encouragement, and dedication. With 41 delegates under his care, Jason spends his day ensuring that each one feels supported, organized, and motivated. As an advisor for three years, he has mastered the art of balancing logistics and emotional support, all while keeping up with the fast-paced schedule of the program.

The day begins with Jason making sure all his delegates have arrived at their designated program areas and are not held up in the security lines at the Convention Center. By the time sessions begin, he is already visiting delegates in the Constitutional Convention program area, checking in and offering Welch’s Fruit Snacks. Jason’s officer team plays a key role in his coordination efforts, as he asks them to message their family groups—small groups of the delegation led by an officer—to gather details on when and where each delegate will be presenting. This ensures that he and the other advisors can attend and show their support.

Jason then checks in with his delegates, Patrick and Lincoln before heading off to see Kendall, Daniela, and Adina in the Senate, all in the span of 15 minutes. Between visits, he takes a quick hallway water break but remains focused on arranging advisor support so that all delegates receive a visit. He even makes time to offer a small but meaningful gesture—giving Allison his famous Welch’s Fruit Snacks.

The morning consists of more check-ins, catching delegates as they destress in the hallways, and keeping up with advisor group chats. Jason also makes sure to greet everyone he passes, embodying the welcoming spirit of Youth & Government. He helps fellow advisors stay organized and expresses his appreciation for his delegation, particularly reflecting on the bittersweet reality of his seniors graduating soon. Throughout the day, he receives valuable support from fellow advisors Ana, Heidy, and Mr. Rivera, who assist in coordinating visits, organizing logistics, and ensuring all delegates have a successful session.

After paying a visit to most delegates, Jason finds a brief moment to answer emails before rushing to another building. He heads to The Hyatt to watch his delegates present their cases in Appellate Court. His commitment to being present is evident–he jogs between buildings, trying to catch as many speeches as possible. Though he misses one speech, he makes it a priority to make it up to the delegate. Throughout the day, he takes photos, gives supportive thumbs-up, and ensures that his officer team reminds delegates to stay in small groups when traveling for lunch or heading back to their hotel rooms.

Jason’s day ends with a well-earned lunch alongside his fellow advisors, reflecting on another successful session. With the constant help of the other advisors, Ana, Heidy, and Mr. Rivera, he was able to support all his “kids,” proving that an advisor’s role is not just about logistics—it’s about fostering confidence, camaraderie, and leadership in the next generation.