For decades, hundreds of 4‑H members from across the country have gathered in our nation’s capital for Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF)—an immersive leadership program designed to help teens explore, develop, and sharpen their civic engagement skills. This year, 25 Ohio 4‑H members and 3 chaperones participated in the experience from March 24–29.
The delegation kicked off their week in Washington, D.C. with a visit to Capitol Hill, where they met with Senator Jon Husted, Senator Bernie Moreno, and several representatives from Ohio’s congressional districts. During these conversations, delegates shared their 4‑H stories, highlighting the program’s impact on their confidence, leadership, and communities. These interactions allowed youth to strengthen their communication skills while advocating for the value of 4‑H.
Following their meetings with elected officials, delegates also spoke with staff members from the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate Agriculture Committee, gaining insight into the committee’s role and importance within the federal government.
The opening session—held at the Capitol—featured welcoming remarks from Senate 4‑H Caucus Co‑Chairs Senators John Boozman and Amy Klobuchar, along with Jill Bramble, CEO of National 4‑H Council, who energized delegates for the week ahead.
Throughout the program, participants engaged in numerous networking opportunities, connecting with 4‑H’ers from across the country and U.S. territories. On the first evening, delegates took part in a lively pin trade, exchanging state pins and learning about one another’s 4‑H experiences and projects.
Workshops throughout the week encouraged delegates to reflect on citizenship, civic responsibility, and their roles as leaders. They applied this learning during tours of national landmarks, including the monuments, Arlington National Cemetery, and the National Museum of the United States Army.
Fairfield County 4‑H member Makenna Lybarger reflected on her experience, sharing, “At CWF I got to take a deep dive into leadership and citizenship as well as some history of our nation’s capital. I participated in many activities that helped me further understand our nation and its policies. We toured national monuments and museums while also participating in workshops that connected me with 4‑H members from across the country!”
Delegates also collaborated on ideas for Lead to Change, an activity that challenged them to consider how they can influence positive change in their own communities once they return home.
As the week came to a close, Ohio’s delegates returned home with a deeper understanding of civic engagement, a stronger sense of personal leadership, and a renewed commitment to serving their communities. Through meaningful conversations, hands‑on learning, and connections with peers from across the country, these 4‑H’ers gained experiences that will continue to shape their confidence and influence long after their time in Washington, D.C., Citizenship Washington Focus once again proved to be a powerful reminder of the role young people can play in strengthening their communities—and our nation.