4-H Day at the Capitol: Duval County 4-H Involvement

“Youth [are] to not let their age restrict them from engaging in public service – that their voice adds value to the design of local policies, practices, and public spaces. It must begin with an acknowledgement that the youth voice matters – that youth are valuable stakeholders, capable of contributing to the vibrancy of our communities.” – Alderperson Resnick

Florida 4-H Day at the Capitol

The 4-H Day at the Capitol Program provides youth with an opportunity to learn more about their state government and experience the political process first hand. 4-H members are highly encouraged to make an appointment with their representative, senator, or a legislative aide to talk about how the Florida 4-H Program has impacted their lives. During the day, participants will hear from public officials, participate in educational workshops, and see their legislators in action.

On Thursday, February 22, 2018, Florida 4-H members and their families will fill Tallahassee. This event provides youth with an opportunity to use their voice and practice good citizenship as they educate their representatives and senators about the 4-H Program. Duval County participates in this important program every year. As a county delegation, Duval will meet with their local legislators.

It might be intimating to meet your legislators, but remember your voice matters and just enjoy the experience. You might still be asking yourself, what should I speak about? Here are some tips to help you get started.

Speaking Tips

The most important thing you need to know before meeting with your representatives and senators is we are in Tallahassee to Educate NOT Lobby.

Educating: Providing information about the Florida 4-H Program and your involvement in 4-H
Lobbying: Attempting to influence the representative’s or senator’s decision about a piece of legislation, policy, or funding issue

Florida 4-H is the official Youth Development Program of the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS)
Florida 4-H teaches youth life skills through Citizenship, Science, Healthy Living, and more
Youth enroll in 4-H through their county’s Cooperative Extension Office.
Over 190,000 youth across the state are involved in the 4-H program
Go to http://florida4h.org/about/impact/es237/ to find out how many 4-H’ers are involved in your county 4-H program
What 4-H projects and programs do YOU participate in
What have YOU learned because of Florida 4-H
Why do YOU love being a 4-H Member

Event Details

Who: All 4-H Members, Friends, Family, and Alumni
When: February 22, 2018
Where: Tallahassee, Florida
Cost: $30. This price includes lunch and a 4-H Polo.

Registration

Registration will be open January 8th-January 31st
Registration will be through 4HOnline
Need help registering? Refer to this document.

Schedule

7:30-8:15 am – Check In
8:30 am – Opening Assembly, Remarks from Public Officials, and Group Photo
9:30 am – Meetings with Representatives and Senators Begin (Please do not schedule meetings with your elected officials during the opening assembly)
10:00 am – Optional Educational Workshops Begin
11:30 am-1:00 pm – Lunch Available for Pick Up
3:30 pm – Closing Remarks and Announcements

Contact 4-H Agent, Kelsey Haupt, if you have any questions or need help signing up! Khaupt@coj.net / 904-255-7450

Information adapted from the Florida 4-H DATC guidebook for Duval County 4-H