4-H Day at the Capitol connects Madison County youth with elected leaders

On Feb. 26, Georgia 4-H’ers filled the halls of the Capitol in Atlanta, turning the building green and experiencing the civic process firsthand. More than 700 youth, staff, volunteers, and supporters attended the annual Georgia 4-H Day at the Capitol, celebrating the positive impact of the 4-H program across the state. Among the attendees were 10 Madison County 4-H’ers who had the opportunity to engage directly with state government.

A group of young people in green shirts and jackets stand on stone steps in front of a large building with columns. — Our group before going into the State Capitol

Two people smiling and looking at the camera, wearing green jackets and lanyards. — Our group before going into the State Capitol

A group of young people in green shirts and a man in a tan jacket with a red tie pose for a photo in a room with artwork on the walls.

State Sen. Larry Walker and Georgia Rep. Rick Jasperse served as legislative hosts for the delegation, while Madison County native Senator Frank Ginn welcomed students into his office and provided a Capitol tour, explaining the duties and responsibilities of Georgia’s House and Senate. In addition, Madison County 4-H’er Oakley King had the honor of serving as a legislative page for the day in Representative Alan Powell’s office. The legislative page program provides students with the unique opportunity to assist lawmakers with day-to-day tasks, observe legislative proceedings, and gain firsthand experience in government operations.

Throughout the day, county 4-H groups toured the Capitol and many arranged meetings with senators and representatives from their districts. Civic engagement and leadership are central to Georgia 4-H programming, helping youth develop life skills, positive relationships, and community awareness while preparing them to be active, engaged citizens. Support from Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation and the Georgia 4-H Foundation helped make the day possible, including transportation, logistics, and lunch for students.

Group of people standing on the floor talking

The event concluded with a luncheon at the Georgia Freight Depot, where 4-H honorees were recognized for state and national accomplishments, and students received encouragement from leaders including Senator Russ Goodman and Representative Jasperse. Georgia 4-H President Robert Thomas addressed attendees on behalf of 201,000 4-H’ers statewide, sharing how 4-H projects helped him discover his spark and pursue his passions. Dean Nick T. Place of the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and State 4-H Leader Melanie Biersmith also provided remarks, recognizing the importance of 4-H in shaping Georgia’s youth. As the state’s premier youth leadership organization, 4-H reaches hundreds of thousands of young people annually through UGA Extension offices and 4-H facilities, empowering them to become leaders of the future.

For more information about joining 4-H in Madison County, contact the Madison County Extension office at (706) 795-2281 or email 4-H Agent Michaela Brown at michaela.brown@uga.edu.