LAMAR, Mo. — Tyler Cox, Mycah Reed, Kelsie Morgan, Theo Crabtree, Clayton Winslow, Matthew Morgan, Brandon Overman and Michaela Winslow joined over 500 young people from across the country Jan 17-21 to learn about political processes in nation’s capital. They participated as part of Citizenship Washington Focus: Presidential Inauguration (CWF-PI), an intensive 4-H civic engagement program for high-school youth held at the National 4-H Conference Center in Chevy Chase, MD.
This 4-H citizenship program for youth, ages 14-19 is aimed at enriching young people’s lives by broadening their knowledge and understanding of the Executive Branch of Government as well as developing their role in citizenship through service, civic education, and engagement.
The Barton County 4-H Teen Leaders alongside their peers learned the meaning and importance of the Democratic process; explored the history of the Presidency, the election process, and the role of the press; discovered the intricacies of the Executive Branch of Government; and explored careers in politics.
“The Barton County 4-H teen leaders spent several months fundraising and planning for the trip. This amazing opportunity opened eyes and minds to a world in which we live. The youth experienced history in the making, adventure and a trip of a lifetime,” said Elaine Davis, 4-H youth educator in Barton County.
During the week, conference delegates also had the opportunity to visit memorials, historical sites and museums in Washington, D.C., and experience the Inaugural Day events of the 45th President including the Oath of Office, Presidential Address and Inauguration Parade.
For more than 50 years, National 4-H Conference Center has invited thousands of young people from across the country to travel to Washington, D.C., and participate in civic workshops, committees and field trips before returning home to make positive changes in their own communities. CWF not only strengthens young people’s understanding of the government’s civic process, but it also boosts their leadership skills, communication skills and overall confidence.
— Bob McNary, University of Missouri Extension
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