Emanuel County 4-H’ers connect with elected leaders and the civic process during 4-H Day at the Capitol

Leadership came to life for the largest-ever Georgia 4-H Day at the Capitol delegation February 25, in Atlanta, as 4-H’ers engaged with the civic process. Elected officials joined nearly 800 youth, staff, volunteers, and supporters to celebrate the impact of 4-H in Georgia.

Senator Larry Walker and Representative Rick Jasperse served as legislative hosts for the 4-H delegation. 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-H’ers to ask questions and learn from their representatives in the Georgia legislature. Emanuel County 4-Her’s Paxton Dixon, Parker Frederick, Scout Hall, Nathaniel Harry, Sam Lawrence, Spencer Lawrence, Yasmin Rios, Addi Rae Robertson, Lauren Sapp, and Sam Williams got the opportunity to meet with their state representative Butch Parrish. They also got to meet with Senator Max Burns.

Georgia 4-H Day at the Capitol culminated with a luncheon in the Georgia Freight Depot that celebrated 4-H and expressed appreciation to lawmakers and supporters. Sen. Walker provided 4-H’ers with encouragement and motivation to become the next generation of leaders. Rep. Jasperse acknowledged a group of 4-H honorees who have received state and national recognition for accomplishments over the past year.

Civic engagement and leadership make up one of three Georgia 4-H focus areas. Opportunities such as 4-H Day at the Capitol, as well as in-school programming, after-school activities, project work and camps, empower 4-H’ers to become engaged citizens and develop life skills, positive relationships and community awareness. A partnership with Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation and the Georgia 4-H Foundation provided support for this unique and impactful event.

Georgia 4-H President Kingston Ryals addressed those in attendance on behalf of 193,500 4-H’ers currently enrolled in Georgia 4-H. “Georgia 4-H prepares us to be leaders, problem solvers, and changemakers,” Ryals said in his remarks. “This organization equips us with the skills to step into the future with confidence. We are not just ready—we are beyond ready.”

Interim Associate Dean for Extension Arch Smith and State 4-H Leader Melanie Biersmith provided remarks to thank legislators and recognize the importance of 4-H for youth in Georgia.

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation invests in Georgia 4-H’ers by providing support for transportation, logistics and lunch during 4-H Day at the Capitol. The event, which is often the first visit to Atlanta for many students, 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 present leaders.

As the premier youth leadership organization in the state, 4-H reaches hundreds of thousands of people annually through UGA Extension offices and 4-H facilities.

For more information on Emanuel County 4-H and how you can get involved, call the UGA Extension Office at (478) 237-1226 or visit our office located at 129 North Anderson Drive in Swainsboro.