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4-H ACTS: Annapolis • Civics • Thriving • Service
Overview:
4-H civic engagement programs empower young people to be well-informed citizens who are actively engaged in their communities and the world. Youth learn about civic affairs, build decision-making skills and develop a sense of understanding and confidence in relating and connecting to others. (National 4-h.org)
In Maryland, 4-H ACTS will provide an opportunity for youth to travel to the state capitol, learn about civics, engage with legislators, and tell their 4-H stories. The event will also celebrate and inspire youth to be engaged in civics and service.
Program Objectives:
- Gain knowledge, understanding, and skills in civics to promote youth engagement with their communities and governments.
- Meet fellow 4-H’ers with similar interests in building social capital.
- Introduced to our State Capitol & its history through an interactive activity.
- Share 4-H stories to exchange ideas and promote 4-H.
- Educate legislators about 4-H and its positive impact on youth and our communities.
Event Details:
Audience: 4-H youth, Volunteers, and Faculty/Staff that have a spark in civics, service, and/or networking and want to share their 4-H story.
Date: Monday, February 20, 2023, 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Location: Historic Inns of Annapolis: Governor Calvert House, 58 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401
Registration: Registration is NOW OPEN in 4-HOnline! Register before February 10, 2023.
Tentative Agenda:
9:30 a.m. Registration
10:00 a.m. Morning Assembly at Historic Inns of Annapolis: Governor Calvert House
- Welcome & Kickoff
- Making the Most of Your Visit - Advice from a Legislator
- Understanding the Legislative Process & Gaining Insight to Your Role
- Combining Civics & Service to Build Thriving Youth
12:00 p.m. Lunch in Annapolis - on your own
1:00 p.m. Afternoon in Annapolis
- Guided Tour of State House (1:30 p.m., limited to 60 people)
- Making Connections - Meetings with your Legislators
- Scavenger Hunt - (in and around) State House Annapolis
4:00 p.m. 4-H Showcase Social - Telling Your 4-H Story (poster session)
5:00 p.m. Adjournment
8:00 p.m. Evening (optional)
- Observing the Legislature in Action - General Assembly Session
Maryland 4-H ACTS Orientation:
Individuals who register for the Maryland 4-H ACTS are encouraged to join us for one of two 4-H ACTS Orientation sessions scheduled. The orientation will offer tips and suggestions to help you, your family or your group prepare for your day in Annapolis.
- Offered on two dates: Thursday, February 2, 7-8 p.m. and Monday, February 6, 7-8 p.m. (Select the date that works best for you!)
- Orientation sessions will be held via Zoom. (Log-in information will be sent to individuals who register to attend Maryland 4-H ACTS.)
Download the Maryland 4-H ACTS Youth Delegate & Chaperone Guidebook for details to help you prepare for this event.
Maryland 4-H ACTS - Presenting a Display at the Showcase Social:
When/Where: The 4-H ACTS Showcase Social will be held from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the Historic Inns at Annapolis.
What: The 4-H Showcase Social is an interactive session for 4-H members to share their 4-H STORY highlighting a 4-H program, event, or service project that benefited others or your community! Presentations can be given by individuals, clubs/groups, or members of a county 4-H program. The presentation is a display such as a project (demonstration style), a tri-fold, or poster highlighting your accomplishment, think Science Fair. Possible topics to display are community service projects, Diamond Clover projects, participation in National Trips, club events, a 4-H project, etc.
Who: The audience will include fellow 4-H youth, families, faculty and staff, invited guests from the University of Maryland, and Members of the Maryland Legislature. Youth presenters will have a specific space around the conference room(s) and invited guests can move around to interact with and learn from the youth.
More details: More details about presenting a display imay be found in the Maryland 4-H ACTS Youth Delegate & Chaperone Guidebook
For more information contact
Gretchen Sumbrum, gsumbrum@umd.edu or Chris Anderson, canders2@umd.edu
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