Students from throughout Kane County participated in 4-H Government Day on Tuesday, adding more than a little bit of fun and some special meaning to the events of the day.

In total, about 27 students took part in the program organized by the University of Illinois Extension for DuPage, Kane and Kendall Counties.

Doris Braddock, program coordinator for 4-H and Youth Development, said this is the 23rd year that the extension has connected students with local government in Kane County.

“Overall, it’s a day of getting to know how county government works and letting them see the parliamentary process,” Braddock said.

Students took a day off from Burlington Central High School, Wredling Middle School, Thompson Middle School, St. Charles North High School, Kaneland High School, St. Charles East High School, Rosary High School and home schooling programs to participate in the shadowing of elected officials and staff.

Members of the Kane County Board, the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office, Kane County GIS Technology Department, Kane County Clerk’s Office, Kane County Treasurer’s Office and Kane County Development and Community Services Department and others contributed their time and attention.

As part of the process, students got a chance to sit in the seats of County Board members and debate and eventually vote on whether the county should add to the number of dog parks at county facilities. How do you think they voted on that one?

4-H Youth Development programs include 4-H Clubs, Learning Enrichment, and other Youth Outreach activities. These positive youth development programs provide opportunities for youth to feel a sense of belonging, develop independence, practice generosity, and experience mastery. For more information on the 4-H program in Kane County, contact Program Coordinator Doris Braddock at dbraddoc@illinois.edu or visit web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk/.

University of Illinois Extension provides educational programs and research-based information to help Illinois residents improve their quality of life, develop skills and solve problems. To learn more about University of Illinois Extension in Kane County and all the programs they offer, please visit their website at web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk/.