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University of California 4-H Youth Development Program

Citizenship Washington Focus

 

Citizenship Washington Focus logo - A leadership summit through the lens of American democracy

Citizenship Washington Focus 2025

June 14–20, 2025

Get ready for the experience of a lifetime! Join California 4-H members from across the state at Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF), the leading civic engagement program for high school youth. For seven days, you’ll dive deep into the workings of our government, develop your leadership skills, and connect with 4-H youth from all over the country—all while exploring the heart of the nation's capital.

CWF Coordinator: Ryan Cleland, rpcleland@ucanr.edu

Here's what you'll experience

First-rate programming by National 4-H Council

You’ll attend workshops and meetings hosted by National 4-H Council. These sessions will be led in-part by recently graduated Program Assistants who create a relatable and welcoming environment to discuss important issues.

Meet your Representatives

You’ll schedule meetings with the offices of your House and Senate representatives, where you’ll have the chance to share how 4-H is impacting you and learn how the government really works. It’s an incredible opportunity to engage directly with those shaping our country’s future.

Engage in Hands-On Workshops

You’ll take part in impactful workshops designed to challenge you and help you grow as a leader. You’ll hear from influential community leaders, government experts, and young changemakers who are already making a difference. Learn how you can bring real, positive change to your own community back home.

Explore Washington, D.C.

Beyond the workshops and meetings, you'll get to experience the rich history and culture of Washington, D.C. Youll visit iconic landmarks like Smithsonian Museums, the U.S. Capitol, the National Mall, and other historic monuments and museums that will deepen your understanding of our nation's story.

Connect with 4-H Members Nationwide

During your time at CWF, you'll meet over 500 4-H youth from across the U.S. You'll make lasting connections, exchange ideas, and build a nationwide network of peers who share your passion for leadership and civic engagement.

Apply what you've learned

Your CWF experience will give you new ideas and strategies that you can apply towards creating your own service-learning project.

Eligibility

This experience is open to currently enrolled California 4-H Senior Members (14 years or older).

Adult Chaperones who are certified 4-H Volunteers are invited to apply to be overnight chaperones for this event. Selected chaperones will need to complete the California 4-H Overnight Chaperone Approval Process in order to attend.

Registration for 2025 CWF is now closed

Registration for the California 4-H delegation is through the State 4-H office only. Space is limited.

CWF Registration cost of $2,559 per person includes:

  • Round trip transportation from California
  • Ground transportation while at the conference
  • Room and board (based on double occupancy for both youth and adults)
  • All meals and breaks (excluding state-organized meals and events)
  • DC area site visits and all program materials
  • California 4-H Citizenship Washington Focus shirts
  • Pins for the pin trade

Chaperone applications

Adult chaperones play an important role in ensuring a safe and memorable event. All chaperones must apply to be considered.

Apply thru Chaperone page on the Resource Center

The Chaperone Role page in the Volunteer Hub on the Resource Center includes the role description, expectations, required training, and application form. Chaperones are selected from the pool of applicants based on the timeline and needs of the event.

Go to Chaperone page

Important information for CWF Delegates & Chaperones

Save these dates if you plan to go to CWF

Mark your calendars! These pre-conference webinars will prepare you for the CWF experience. It is important for all delegates to attend each webinar.

Friday, April 4, 6–7:30 pm – Orientation

Meet the other California 4-H delegates and chaperones! Find out what you can expect at CWF, learn about legislative visits and give input on activities outside of the conference.

Thurs, May 1, 6–7:30 pm – Legislative Visit Prep & Service-Learning Projects

Learn how to effectively contact your federal legislators to make appointments and how to prepare for your visit with them. Get a better understanding of Service-Learning Projects. You can also share your ideas for service-learning projects.

Thurs, Jun 5, 6–7:30 pm – Trip Prep

Review the final details of the trip and event expectations. Get excited to go!