According to the National Education Association, high quality civics education has positive benefits to youth who become more likely to vote and discuss politics at home, volunteer and work on community issues and speak publicly and communicate with elected officials.  It also develops skills in critical thinking, civil debate, and classroom confidence.   The Shelby County 4-H Agents planned an educational trip to Washington D.C. for Shelby County 4-H Teen Council Members to provide them with a strong educational experience in civic engagement and US History.

Nineteen youth, agents and a council volunteer traveled to the national’s capital after planning and fundraising for three years.  The cost of the trip for 4-H members was under $200.  At least four of the 4-Hers would not have been able to attend if the cost had been higher.  This was an opportunity for many to travel to a large city and experience subways and bus transportation for the first time.

During the trip, 4-Hers were able to tour the US Capital, the White House, Ford’s Theater, and the National Mall.  They were also able to visit some of the Smithsonian Museums, The Holocaust Museum, National Archives, The National Zoo, Arlington Cemetery, and Art Museums.   While in Washington D.C, the Shelby County youth met with their US Representative in his office and discussed his daily duties and roles on the committees he serves on in congress. The 4-Hers were engaged and asked questions while also sharing their 4-H experiences with the congressman.

When asked about the best part of the trip, youth responses included:

“My favorite part of this trip was getting to see the monuments.  My favorite has to be the Korean Monument, where I saw a relative’s name. It helped increase my knowledge of the government and US History from all the places we got to go and people we got to meet.”

“Whether we were immersed in the solemnity of the Holocaust Museum, where I was particularly moved by the depth of the historical exhibits or engaging in thought-provoking discussions at Ford’s Theatre, every moment felt like an educational adventure. Even beyond the museums, we delighted in the rich history of D.C. and delightful flavors of new cuisines all of which were enriched by the shared experiences that truly deepened our connection and defined the essence of our trip.”

“What I loved most about the trip was experiencing the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery.  The Changing of the Guard was a very intense, yet amazing experience and I am grateful for having the opportunity to witness this ceremony.”