Civics Camp
Saturday, May 30 | Free | Limited Space
A One-Day Experience for West Michigan Middle and High School Youth
As President Gerald R. Ford reminded us nearly 50 years ago, “The American adventure is a continuing process. As one milestone is passed, another is sighted. As we achieve one goal -- a longer lifespan, a literate population, a leadership in world affairs -- we raise our sights.”
Are you ready to join the adventure?
Join the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Scouting America’s Michigan Crossroads Council, and Grand Rapids America 250 for this free one-day civics camp to prepare middle school and high school youth to join the American adventure as active citizens.
This One-Day Camp on May 30 is Open to all Middle- and High School Students in West Michigan.
Participants will learn in a fun and friendly setting about: ❋ American Citizenship. Participants will learn about the foundations of American Government, including the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the three branches of government—all exemplified by President Ford’s lifetime of service.
❋ Global Perspective. Participants will gain an appreciation of their global citizenship by exploring the values, traditions, and concerns of people in other countries, and will become aware of their responsibilities beyond their own nation’s borders.
❋ Being a Grand Rapidian. As we celebrate the 175th anniversary of the founding of Grand Rapids, together we will reflect on living in West Michigan today. Participants will explore how local government solves problems and makes lives better for the community.
❋ Guest Speakers. Citizenship will be brought to life by guest speakers that combine their passion for helping others, real-world experiences, and storytelling ability together to inspire West Michigan youth.
What to Expect
Participants will earn a commemorative patch in honor of Grand Rapids A250.
Event Partners
"As we begin our third century, there is still so much to be done.
We must increase the independence of the individual and the opportunity of all Americans to attain their full potential. We must ensure each citizen's right to privacy. We must create a more beautiful America, making human works conform to the harmony of nature. We must develop a safer society, so ordered that happiness may be pursued without fear of crime or manmade hazards. We must build a more stable international order, politically, economically, and legally. We must match the great breakthroughs of the past century by improving health and conquering disease. We must continue to unlock the secrets of the universe beyond our planet as well as within ourselves. We must work to enrich the quality of American life at work, at play, and in our homes."
— President Gerald R. Ford, July 3, 1976
Keynote Speaker
State Senator Mark Huizenga
State Senator Mark Huizenga has represented portions of Kent and Ottawa counties in the State Senate since 2021. Prior to his election to the state Senate, Huizenga was elected to serve the 74th District in the Michigan House of Representatives in 2018 and 2020. He has been involved in the city of Walker in varying capacities from serving on the planning commission from (2005-2011), as city commissioner to the 3rd Ward (2011-2013), and as mayor (2013-2018).
Saturday, May 30
Our Day Together
Our fun and friendly day together will inspire middle and high school youth to join the American adventure.
Pledge of Allegiance & Opening Session10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Breakout Sessions11:00am
Lunch Break & Time to Explore the Museum12:00 p.m.
Guest Speaker Sessions1:00pm
Closing Events4:00 p.m.