Elected officials join 4-Hers at capitol for 4-H Day

ATLANTA — The Georgia Capitol building turned shades of green as 4-H members and adult leaders joined elected officials recently for the largest Georgia 4-H Day at the Capitol on record  with nearly 700 attendees. Outstanding 4-Hers from counties across the state, including Dougherty, gathered to engage with their legislators, observe leadership in action, and learn about the civic process.

Civic engagement is one of three focus areas that Georgia 4-H emphasizes to youth through in-school programming, after-school activities, project work and camps. A special partnership with Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation and the Georgia 4-H Foundation makes it possible for hundreds of Georgia 4-Hers to “learn by doing” with a visit to the State Capitol in Atlanta to experience the civic process in real time.

Senator Larry Walker and Rep. Rick Jasperse served as hosts for the 4-H delegation. Georgia 4-H President Thomas Holt addressed those in attendance on behalf of 173,500 4-Hers currently enrolled in Georgia 4-H.

“This organization provides life-changing experiences for every 4-Her,” Holt said during his address. “This is all made possible by support from our elected officials and every stakeholder in the Georgia 4-H family.”

County groups spent their morning exploring the Capitol building through tours and a scavenger hunt. Numerous 4-H agents arranged for meetings with senators and representatives from their own districts, allowing 4-Hers to ask questions and learn from their representatives in the Georgia legislature.

Georgia’s current slate of elected officials contains many 4-H alumni, parents and supporters who were thrilled to welcome students to the place where government comes to life.

The day concluded with a luncheon that brought students and legislators together for a celebration of Georgia 4-H. Jasperse provided 4-Hers with encouragement and motivation to become the next generation of leaders. Walker acknowledged a group of 4-H honorees who have received state and national recognition for accomplishments over the past year.

The program also featured remarks from Spalding County 4-Her Winta Ykeallo, who spoke about the impact 4-H has made on her life. Tyler Tucker brought greetings on behalf of USDA and the Secretary of Agriculture. Nick Place, dean and director of UGA’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Science, spoke on behalf of the university, and associate Dean for Extension Laura Perry Johnson provided closing remarks.

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation invests in Georgia 4-Hers by providing support for transportation, logistics and lunch during 4-H Day at the Capitol. This event facilitates first-time trips to Atlanta for many students, and it makes an indelible mark on those who attend. Youth are empowered to become leaders of the future when they are given the opportunity to engage with those who lead in the present.

For more information about how to get involved with 4-H, contact a local UGA Extension office or visit georgia4h.org.

Special Photo: Blane Marable