Since 1957, Optimist Clubs have recognized youth for their talents in the arts, athletics, academics and for contributions to the community. The Youth In Government Program provides the perfect opportunity for our youth to recognize Optimist activities and involve them in city and provincial governments and agencies.
A Youth In Government Day is supported by the Optimist Club of Oakridge Acres. This event gives young people the opportunity to gain first hand knowledge about their local or provincial government. There are many different activities and projects that are undertaken on this day.
Students are matched with city, county or provincial government officials for one morning or an entire work day. Students vote for a Mayor, Councillors and Aldermen amongst themselves and the 'elected' student officials then shadow their counterparts for the day. Discussions are held among the students regarding what they have learned from the experience.
A mock city council meeting is held with separate council committee meetings. Topics that are held include city budgeting, local crime, water pollution and building/zoning regulations. Elected students serve one-day terms in various council-reporting positions. On the designated day, they occupy the desks of the officials and learn about the problems that confront the public servant and how they are solved.
A day internship program is organized with a local government office. Participants are assigned to the supervision of one government employee and assume this individual's job duties for the day.
EMAIL: oakridge@execulink.com
Peter Hegler
76 Hartson Road
London, Ontario
N6H 3S8
(519) 471-4928
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