Developing Civically Engaged Leaders
DOWNLOADJuly 30, 2024 - Michigan State University Extension
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- 26,000 Michigan 4-H youth experiences related to citizenship, leadership, civic engagement, community service, communication and arts in 2021-2022
- 151 Michigan 4-H citizenship, leadership, cultural education and communication programs offered in 2022
Impacts
As a result of Michigan 4-H leadership and civic engagement activities, thousands of Michigan youth build a commitment to civic service, cultivate the capacity to lead in a multicultural world and develop skills to positively contribute to their communities, country and world. A 10-year longitudinal study conducted by Tufts University found that 4-H youth are:
- 4x more likely to make contributions to their communities.
- 2x more likely to be civically active.
- 2x more likely to make healthier choices.
"It is because of this program that I now have a clearer view of what I need to do in order to build the career that I want. It is also because of this program that I feel better suited to safely make a difference in local government. Further, the lessons I've learned about speaking and presenting have translated to my leadership roles in school clubs." -Youth participant in Michigan 4-H leadership and civic engagement programs
Priority Areas
Michigan State University Extension’s 4-H Youth Development is helping to develop youth as current and future leaders by providing programs that instill young people with the knowledge and skills to become positive agents of change. These programs focus on:
◦ Leadership development.
◦ Civic education and engagement.
◦ Global citizenship.
◦ Cultural competency.
These experiences and trainings teach youth how to run a meeting, deal with conflict, understand the public policy process, understand other cultures, work collaboratively with people of various leadership styles and personalities, and much more.
For more information about MSU Extension’s leadership, civic and cultural engagement programs and resources, contact 4Hleadership@msu.edu or visit us online.
Creating a Culture of Civic Engagement and Service
Each spring, Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H bring youth to Lansing to experience government first-hand at 4-H Capitol Experience. This event allows young people to develop their leadership skills and prepare for active citizenship by focusing on civic engagement and public policy. In addition to writing their own legislation and simulating the process of how policy is made, youth meet with state agency staff, lobbyists and legislators as they learn how to make their voices heard on issues that matter to them. In 2022, 4-H Capitol Experience was offered in a hybrid format, with some attending in-person, in Lansing, and others joining online. Thirty individuals in ninth grade through age 19 attended the event. After attending the conference, participants are equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a difference in their communities. Beyond their expanded awareness of the democratic process, these young people have an increased understanding of their roles and responsibilities as citizens in today’s world, as well as knowledge of careers in the public sector.
Attendees in 2022 reported:
- 100% had a better understanding of careers in and around policy.
- 100% developed new relationships with leaders during the program.
- 100% had a better understanding of how the government works.
- 89% had a better understanding of ways they can influence public policies.
- 84% said the program was valuable for their growth/development.
After reflecting on the experience, attendees stated:
"I know I can make a difference."
"This opened my eyes to legislative processes. I plan to think more about who to vote for at age 18.
