UNIVERSITY PARK – 4-H’ers from across Pennsylvania met in Harrisburg for the 45th Annual Pennsylvania State 4-H Capital Days, an annual citizenship awareness event that was held April 19-21 at the Harrisburg Hilton and Towers. Two 4-H members from Clearfield County were in attendance at this event. Katie McAndrew and Elizabeth McAndrew, both the Town & Country 4-H Horse and Pony Club represented Clearfield County this year. Katie & Elizabeth are the daughters of Joseph & Debbie McAndrew of Brockway.
The goal of the two-day program is to introduce 4-H’ers to Pennsylvania government through a series of hands-on, interactive experiences, says Phil Hoy, youth program management coordinator in Penn State’s department of agricultural and extension education. “Participants will learn how laws are passed by participating in a mock legislative session. They are grouped into the majority and minority parties to discuss their party’s stand on the issues, and then come together as full house and vote on three bills that include issues such as internet laws, school calendar year, and tobacco possession for minors.”
Other activities included being welcomed by Rep. Scott Conklin, as well as several workshops on Pennsylvania’s legislative process, diversity issues, personalities, and interview skills.
“This event introduces youth to an experience that they typically would not be exposed to in a traditional classroom setting. The Pennsylvania 4-H State Council served as master of ceremonies as well as conducting the mock legislative sessions. This helps us to illustrate the importance of the 4-H experience in leadership and citizen development,” says Hoy.
“4-H Capital Days is one of several opportunities for Pennsylvania’s youth to learn to be engaged with their communities,” states Christy Bartley, state 4-H program leader. “4-H members learn about local, state, and national governments through several opportunities during the program year.” 4-H partnered with Representative Scott Conklin to plan and implement this year’s event.
4-H is a non-formal youth development educational program of Penn State Cooperative Extension for all youth between the ages of 8 and 19, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identification, or veteran status. For additional information on the 4-H program or to locate a 4-H club in your area, contact Jana Lynne Davidson at the Clearfield County Cooperative Extension Office at 814-765-7878 Ext. 3.