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Young People's Citizenship Forum

Friday February 26, 2010 Posted 2 years, 2 months ago by Ken Delaney

The Michigan Farm Bureau is seeking students for its 46th annual Young People's Citizenship Seminar (YPCS).

YPCS is a five-day seminar which teaches young people about the democratic political process and how to become informed, active citizens. The event will be held June 28 to July 1 at Northwood University in Midland.

This year's seminar is unique in that occurs in what will be a historic election year for Michigan, said Matt Kapp, YPCS co-organizer and MFB land use and elections specialist. On top of a whopping 72 percent turnover of legislators in the 2010 general election, for the first time in Michigan's history the state will have all new leadership including a new governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, speaker of the House and Senate majority leader. 

"With YPCS we want to build on this political fervor and help teenagers understand the power of their vote and the freedoms that Americans enjoy in a democratic society," said Kapp.

To accomplish this, attendees participate in mock political elections and other fun, interactive activities designed to hone leadership skills and teach government principles and economics. Students also enjoy recreational and social activities as well as motivational presentations by guest speakers.

YPCS is open to all 2010-2011 high school juniors and seniors. Applications are currently being accepted through April 23.

Although the majority of YPCS participants hail from Farm Bureau families, Farm Bureau membership is not a requirement.

"County Farm Bureaus select participants from local applications received, but YPCS is open to all students regardless of their Farm Bureau involvement," said Kapp.

Cost this year is reduced to $230 per student. Generally, county Farm Bureaus or a local business sponsor the seminar fee; however, a small commitment fee may be required.

More information on YPCS, including a downloadable brochure and promotional video, is available online atwww.michfb.com/ypcs. Information can also be obtained from high school principals, guidance counselors and county Farm Bureau offices, as well as by calling MFB at (800) 292-2680, ext. 2027.