Leadership came to life for the largest-ever Georgia 4-H Day at the Capitol delegation in Atlanta as 4-H’ers engaged with the civic process. Elected officials joined nearly 800 youth, staff, volunteers, and supporters on Feb. 25 to celebrate the impact of 4-H in Georgia.

State Sen. Larry Walker and Georgia Rep. Rick Jasperse served as legislative hosts for the 4-H delegation. County 4-H groups explored and toured the Capitol building, and many 4-H leaders arranged direct meetings with senators and representatives from their districts.

Georgia’s current slate of elected officials includes many 4-H alumni, parents and supporters who welcomed students to the place where government comes to life.

Promoting civic engagement and leadership

Georgia 4-H, a program of University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, promotes civic engagement and leadership among its top focus areas. 4-H’ers find support through opportunities including 4-H Day at the Capitol, in-school programming, after-school activities, project work and camps. These activities empower 4-H’ers to become engaged citizens and develop life skills, positive relationships and community awareness.

Georgia 4-H Day at the Capitol culminated with a luncheon in the Georgia Freight Depot that celebrated 4-H and expressed appreciation to lawmakers and supporters. Sen. Walker encouraged 4-H’ers to become the next generation of leaders, while Rep. Jasperse acknowledged a group of 4-H honorees who have received state and national recognition for accomplishments over the past year.

Rep. Jasperse earned a bachelor’s degree in food science from UGA’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences in 1979 and returned to earn a master’s degree in agricultural leadership in 2003. Sen. Walker earned a bachelor’s degree in business from UGA in 1987.

‘Step into the future with confidence’

Georgia 4-H President Kingston Ryals addressed those in attendance on behalf of 193,500 4-H’ers currently enrolled in Georgia 4-H. “Georgia 4-H prepares us to be leaders, problem solvers and changemakers,” Ryals said. “This organization equips us with the skills to step into the future with confidence. We are not just ready — we are beyond ready.”

Interim Associate Dean for Extension Arch Smith and State 4-H Leader Melanie Biersmith thanked legislators and recognized the importance of 4-H for youth in Georgia.

Support for the event was provided through a partnership between Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation and the Georgia 4-H Foundation. Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation invests in Georgia 4-H’ers by providing support for transportation, logistics and lunch during 4-H Day at the Capitol. The event, which is often the first visit to Atlanta for many students, makes an indelible mark on those who attend. Youth are empowered to become leaders of the future when they are given the opportunity to engage with present leaders.

As the premier youth leadership organization in the state, Georgia 4-H reaches hundreds of thousands of people annually through UGA Extension offices and 4-H facilities. For more information about how to get involved with 4-H in your community, contact your local UGA Extension office or visit georgia4h.org.