4-H Citizenship Program travels to Des Moines

Members of the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach 4-H program in Allamakee, Howard, Mitchell and Winneshiek counties recently completed their first year of a two-year 4-H citizenship program. As a portion of the program, participants visited the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines and met with their State Senators and Representatives. While meeting their legislators, members discussed current issues and concerns and the role that government plays in their lives. Also while in Des Moines the group visited the Blank Children’s Hospital (as evident in the above photo) and donated toys, games and movies for children to use while they are recovering. These donations were the final portion of a service learning activity that each of the counties participated in. Those attending from Allamakee County were Emily Opfer, daughter of John and Jenny Opfer of Waukon; Melissa Hammel, daughter of Charles and Deb Hammel of Dorchester; and Kayla Palmer, daughter of Glen and Holly Palmer of Waukon. Katelyn Leiran, daughter of Steven and Nancy Leiran of Waterville, is also a member of the 4-H Citizenship program. The Citizenship program is open to any 4-H member in grades 7-12. Contact Sue Pederson, County Youth Co-Coordinator, at the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Allamakee County office for more information. Submitted photo.