4-H Capital Experience 2011

Preparing for Active Citizenship

4-H Capitol Experience is an annual 4-day conference that focuses on civic engagement and public policy. More than 100 teens from around the state converge on Lansing, Michigan, to experience state government in action!

Since 1982, Michigan teens have had the opportunity to learn how they can get involved with influencing policy issues. After choosing a current issue, participants interact with legislators, state agency staff, lobbyists and other resource people to learn how policy is made. Through educational experiences, teens will:

• Discover how to be actively involved in influencing policy decisions
• Understand the responsibilities of a citizen
• Explore different aspects of a policy issue that may affect individuals and communities
• Explore various careers in public policy
• Learn about the policy process at the state level
• Bill writing session
• Network with teens from around the state

Teens who attend 4-H Capitol Experience have the opportunity for an in-depth meeting with someone who works either in or is involved with state government. In addition, simulations and activities are incorporated to reinforce and apply what is learned about government. At the end of the conference, the teens leave with the charge to share what they have learned with others and get involved with other leadership and civic engagement activities in their communities!

Want to know what it's like to attend Capital Experience from the perspective of a youth participant?  Check out the story and pictures of Gentian W., a Marquette County 4-H member who attended the conference last year.  Go to: http://www.upriders.com/Archives/2010/03/CapitolExperience.htm to read Gentian's story. 

About the 2011 Conference

When and Where:

The conference begins with registration on Sunday, March 20, 2011, from 3 to 4 p.m. and ends on Wednesday, March 23, 2011, at 12:30 p.m. Tours and agency visits will take place at the State Capitol and surrounding area.

Who Should Attend:

High school students at least 14 years old and adult participant-chaperons who are interested in gaining skills and knowledge to develop their leadership, citizenship and community service skills and apply what is learned in their communities. All participants must have pictured identification.

Cost:

Registration cost includes all meals, lodging and material fees. Counties will be billed after the event. Cost: $295 4-H members, $305 non4-H members.  The Marquette County 4-H Council provides full or partial scholarships to conference participants, depending on how many people attend from Marquette County.  

Registration Deadlines:

Registrations are due in the county offices by February 4, 2011.
Registrations are due in the State 4-H Office by February 11, 2011.

For more information, including the application packet, go to the 4-H Capital Experience website: http://web1.msue.msu.edu/cyf/youth/capexp.html

or Contact Brian Wibby at the Marquette County MSU Extension office.