Civic engagement helps create and cultivate vibrant communities.  Studies have shown social capital is necessary for effective government and economic development.  Part of social capital is engaging in the legislative process, serving on local boards/councils, and contributing in topics important to that community. 

As a way to encourage civic engagement from our Extension volunteers and supporters, a group of Extension Agents worked together to facilitate the Empowering Local Leaders program to District 1 Agents during the fall staff meeting. After the training, each county was given the tools to facilitate the training to the local leaders in their own county. The goal of the program is to teach participants the basics of the state and federal legislative process, and also how to communicate effectively with elected officials on important local issues.

In Menifee County, the program was delivered to the County Extension Council and County Extension Board.  After the presentation 75% increased their knowledge of the legislative process.  After the program, 100% indicated they felt more prepared to contact an elected official about an issue that concerned them.  Due to the program, 50% are likely to contact an elected official in the next six months on topics that concern them or their community.