The Douglas County 4-H Office recently received two opportunities that might appeal to older 4-H members interested in the political process. The first is the Colorado Youth Advisory Council. Basically, the purpose of the council is to allow Colorado youth to have a voice in the legislature. The youth meet with senators, debate important topics, create bills, and focus on trying to help or alleviate critical issues facing children and teenagers. For example, this past year, a bill was passed by the Education Committee that focused on having a more environmental curriculum, such as a walk/bike to school day or a science class that focuses more on how to keep the planet healthy.
Some requirements for Colorado Youth Advisory Council (COYAC) include:
*Applicants must be 14-19 years old. They may be attending a Colorado junior high, middle or high school (including on-line school), be home-schooled, participate in a GED program, or have obtained a high school diploma or GED.
*There are 17 different vacancies in senate districts (for specifics on which senate districts are open you can check the website), and it is preferred that applicants be from the open senate districts. However, if an applicant's senate district is already filled, but he/she is still interested, the applicant can request an at-large spot. (Note: At-large spots are much more competitive).
*Only four meetings are held during the year so it is important that applicants be available to come to these meetings.
More information is available at http://www.civiccanopy.org/
Another opportunity is right in Douglas County. It is presented by the Partnership of Douglas County Governments and is a free day of learning and networking with other kids and elected officials. The contact information is listed below; for further information, contact Carla Turner at cturner@douglas.co.us.
4-Hers are famous for getting involved in their communities. If you are interested in political science, these are great opportunities.Get involved!
Thanks for reading,
Mary Baldwin
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