Because of the unknowns nationally with CWF, Nebraska is moving to a one-year time frame for planning and fundraising. County-based Nebraska Extension programs may explore other ways to use the funds that have already been collected (example: Ignite Conference). In some cases, it may make more sense for counties to return the money back to each individual 4-H’er.
The Nebraska State 4-H Office will continue to share updates as we learn more about opportunities for 2025. We are encouraging county-based Nebraska Extension programs to continue brainstorming ways that the funds they had consistently raised could still be used for other opportunities (some of which are also offered by National 4-H).
______________________________________________________
For more than 50 years, thousands of high school youth from all across the country have traveled to Washington, DC each summer to partake in the preeminent 4-H citizenship experience – Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF). CWF is a national program designed for 4-H members and teen leaders ages 14-19. Sessions are offered throughout the weeklong program held throughout June and July each year. CWF provides youth with opportunities to:
- explore, develop, and refine the civic engagement skills they need to be outstanding leaders in their community, country, and world.
- engage in sightseeing tours throughout Washington, D.C., led by college-aged program assistants.
- learn the history of our nation and how leadership and citizenship skills can be applied in local community.
Program registration costs vary. Nebraska 4-H sends several regional groups each year that spend time visiting additional educational locations on the way to CWF. For more information, please contact your local Extension office.