In a 2016 survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center, one in four youth were unable to name the three branches of government. In addition, in July 2018 the Kentucky Revised Statute (KRS) 158.141 stated a student must pass a civics test at a rate of 60% or higher, composed of 100 questions to graduate from a public high school with a regular diploma. To address this need, Kentucky 4-H Capitol Experience was established with the objectives of: 

1. Developing a positive relationship between elected officials, 4-H members, 4-H Agents, and 4-H volunteer leaders. 
2. Increasing the knowledge of civics and state government in Kentucky 4-H participants.
3. Increasing the knowledge of 4-H Youth Development programs to state elected officials. 
4. Increasing a sense of responsibility in Kentucky 4-H members to take an active role in local and state government. 

Over 300 Kentucky 4-H Youth, 19 youth from Laurel County, extension personnel, and 4-H volunteers, four from Laurel County, attended the 2023 Kentucky 4-H Capitol Experience event. Of the 4-H members participating in the event; (a) 41% had an interest (spark) in learning about state government processes, (b) 31% now understand the importance of being an informed citizen, (c) 28% of youth participating plan to register to vote as soon as they are eligible, and (d) 21% want to learn more about state and local government or run for office in their 4-H club.

After attending 4-H Capitol Experience a Laurel County 4-H Member stated, “I enjoyed meeting with my legislators. They have encouraged me to become more engaged in my community. I plan on joining our teen leaders club to be able to work more with local leaders.”

Laurel County 4-H members met with their local legislators, Senator Brandon Storm and Representatives Derek Lewis and Shane Baker.