Local youth learn about civic engagement in Washington D.C.

43 Minnesota youth, including 4 from Clearwater County, attended the 4-H Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF) experience in Washington, DC June 22-29, 2019.

“CWF is a national 4-H experience designed to challenge youth to think about how they can use their voice to create positive, sustainable change in their communities,” said Jacquie Lonning, Civic Engagement & Leadership Director at the University of Minnesota Extension Center for Youth Development.

4-H Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF) is held every summer at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center in Washington, D.C. Through a series of speakers, committee work, field trips and social events, youth explore, develop, and refine skills needed to be an outstanding leader on both a local and national level. CWF participants get a behind-the-scenes look at our nation's capital, meet members of Congress, hear from motivational speakers, and participate in educational workshops and assemblies that increase their individual commitment to civic involvement -building skills for a lifetime of success. Through CWF, youth strengthen their communication, leadership, and citizenship skills, and learn about the democratic process and the importance of becoming active and engaged community members.

CWF was truly the experience of a lifetime! In the short amount of time that I was in Washington, D.C.,  I learned that by working with others, everyone can benefit.  You can help your community grow and change in positive ways. Along with how much I learned, I also made so many new friends and experienced so many new things that I will carry with me forever.  I am so thankful for this opportunity and would encourage anyone that has a similar chance to take it! – Izabell Gerbracht

All the CWF delegates participated in a Civil Discourse class where we learned and practiced problem solving stragegies with people who don’t share your same opinions.  I really enjoyed that class.  I also enjoyed meeting and working with 4-Hers from around the nation. – Tessa Tramm

I enjoyed interacting with the youth as we toured Washington DC, it was encouraging to witness the Patriotism in the young citizens. – Sara Tramm

We would like to say a very special thank you to our local sponsors.  Without them, this would not have been possible. Clover Township, Leon Township, Greenwood Township, Sinclair Township, Winsor Township, Pine Lake Township, Shevlin Township, Dudley Township, Eddy Township, Holst Township, Gonvick Lions Club, American Legion Post 16, Copley Township, Bagley Rotary Club, Nora Township, Popple Township, Itasca Township, LaPrairie Township, Minerva Township, Bear Creek Township, Falk Township. 

4-H offers leadership and civic engagement experiences throughout the year. To learn more, visit z.umn.edu/4HLeadership.