Every year, Florida 4-H hosts a program called 4-H Day at the Capitol. This year it was held on
April 19 th and had approximately 1,000 participants attending. This event provides an opportunity for youth throughout the state to learn about state government.
Every county that has youth attending sets up an agenda for the day that can include tours of the House, Senate, Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University, Old Capitol Building, and other areas near the Capitol. They may also schedule appointments to meet their Senator and House Representative in a one-on-one setting.
During this event, there are booths set up all around the courtyard with games and activities for the youth to participate in.
The Gadsden County 4-H program had 14 youth attend the 4-H Day at the Capitol this year.
We arrived at the Capitol for check-in at 9:00 and allowed the youth to walk around the courtyard to see all the different booths. At our first appointment of the day, the youth got to learn about the history and responsibilities of the House of Representatives.
Then we got to tour the Senate, where the youth learned how to present, debate, and pass a bill.
Afterwards, we walked over to the Old Capitol and learned about the history of the building.
Then the youth split into groups and walked around the building. We then went to the 22 nd floor
of the New Capitol so the youth could view Tallahassee from the top of the Capitol.
After the event, I asked a few of the Gadsden County 4-H youth what they enjoyed about this
event. Cheyanne said, “I loved seeing the artwork and the books with the Florida Statutes. Jack stated, “I enjoyed visiting the Senate and learning how laws are passed.”
Jayden said, “I like seeing the House of Representatives where lawmakers make decisions.”
Roger stated, “One of his favorite parts about 4-H Day at the Capitol was the activities. I
enjoyed setting up some simple yard games and playing them with fellow 4-H’rs I’ve never met
before. I feel like I made a lot of friends from across the state.”
This event is an amazing opportunity for youth in Gadsden County to participate in and learn
about the Capitol. It is held annually in the earlier part of the year and open to all youth ages 5-18.
This event is also available to the schools in Florida. Teachers can sign-up a class to attend through their local 4-H Office or parents can sign their children up to become a 4-H member by contacting the UF/IFAS Gadsden County Extension office at 850-875-7255.
Evie Blount is a 4-H agent for UF/IFAS Extension Gadsden County.
