4-H Capitol Experience

March 18-21, 2012

4-H Capitol Experience is a state-wide conference on government, citizenship, and leadership.  More than 100 teens and adult chaperones from all over Michigan will spend four days in Lansing visiting agencies, touring the Capitol and experiencing state government in action!

Participants interact with legislators, state agency staff, lobbyists, teens and others to learn how policy is made, and how they can have a direct influence in public policy decisions.  Participants will also learn how decisions at the state level affect local communities, explore careers in public policy, and will work with other teens to draft legislation on a public policy issue of their choice!

When & Where is 4-H Capitol Experience?

4-H Capitol Experience will be held March 18 to 21, 2012.  The program will take place at the Quality Inn of Lansing, the Michigan Capitol Building, and state and community agencies in the Lansing area.  Participants will have the opportunity to visit The State Capitol Building, The Supreme Court, and various State and Community Agencies.  Transportation will be arranged for participants who will traveling from the Upper Peninsula to attend the conference.

Who Can Attend?
4-H Capitol Experience is for high school teens and adult chaperones who are interested in citizenship and/or state and local government.  You do NOT need to be currently involved in 4-H in order to participate in this educational experience.

How much does it cost?
Registration includes all meals, lodging, and materials.  Rate: $300 for adults and current 4-H members.  $310 for new 4-H members.  FULL SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE TO PAY FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION!!!  Please contact Brian Wibby if you would like more information on scholarships.

Conference Highlights:
Sunday (registration starts at 3:00 pm)
     - Explore Public Policy Issues
Monday
     - Visit Community Organizations
     - Discussions with Legislative Aides
     - Tour the Capitol Building and the Hall of Justice
Tuesday
     - Meet and dine with YOUR legislator(s)
     - Visit Lobbyists and Legislative Committee Meetings
     - Visit State Agencies
Wednesday
      - Explore Careers in Public Policy
      - Bill Signing and Presentation of Certificates
Throughout the conference:

      - Participate in a Legislative Simulation 

For More Information and How to Apply:

Visit the 4-H Capitol Experience website to learn more about the conference and to download an application: http://4h.msue.msu.edu/4h/4_h_capitol_experience

You can also get an application by contacting the Marquette County MSU Extension office.

You might also want to check out the article written by Gentian Waller, a Marquette County 4-H'er who attended Capitol Experience in 2010: http://www.upriders.com/Archives/2010/03/CapitolExperience.htm

  

Applications are due to the county MSU Extension by February 3, 2012.