YSA Conference Quick Start Guide

When planning, organizing, holding, and evaluating a young single adult (YSA) conference, make sure there is sufficient time to effectively carry out each step below. If you have questions during any stage of the conference, email ysa-conferences@ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

1. Get Started

Organize a YSA conference committee and allow YSAs to lead the effort.
Include institute representatives and the area controller (or financial representative) in the planning.
Seek inspiration on the conference goals and theme.
Create an effective YSA conference awareness plan.
Create an effective conference evaluation plan.
Obtain Area Presidency approval.
Clearly define roles and responsibilities and organize subcommittees.

2. Plan, Prepare, and Make Aware

Secure proper funding. (This may be from the area or local unit budget. Or you may need to request additional funds.)
Select conference dates that accommodate as many YSAs as possible and do not conflict with FSY conferences.
Arrange for adequate support. (You could use local volunteers. You can also receive headquarters support through the Publishing Services or Meetinghouse Facilities departments. You may also contract with outside vendors and agencies for services and support.)
Secure venues, services, and talent, presenters, and speakers.
Determine means for registration and open registration as early as possible (for access to a registration system, send questions to Conf-Registration@ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
Execute on the awareness plan, monitor responses, and adjust as needed.
Define a process for how to manage the unexpected during the conference.

3. Hold and Evaluate the Conference

Follow the conference plan.
Follow the process for managing the unexpected.
Evaluate the conference. (Record attendance; YSA feedback on events and experiences; the conference’s impact on attitudes, testimony, and Church participation; budget expenditures; and so on.)
Submit evaluation report to the Area Presidency and Church headquarters.