Village Of Homewood Launches First-Ever Youth Civics Academy

HOMEWOOD, IL – The Village of Homewood is launching its inaugural Youth Civics Academy on Friday, July 31, offering young residents a first-of-its-kind opportunity to experience local government through an immersive, hands-on program.

Homewood will host Homewood residents ages 10-14 for the free one-day academy. The academy will feature interactive learning, team challenges, behind-the-scenes tours and direct engagement with Village staff and elected officials.

Participants will engineer a water tower using popsicle sticks, learn the math behind pumping water from a fire engine, investigate a mock crime scene and engage in many more hands-on activities.

The Youth Civics Academy was created to help young residents better understand how local government impacts their daily lives and delivers the essential services residents rely on. Throughout the day, participants will explore public safety, public works infrastructure, economic development, finance and municipal operations while gaining firsthand insight into the people and departments that keep Homewood running.

"The Youth Civics Academy will be a tremendous opportunity to connect with our youth and inspire the next generation of civic leaders," said Assistant Village Manager Terence Acquah. "Our staff is excited to share what they do each day and demonstrate how every department plays a role in serving our community and moving Homewood forward."

The inaugural Youth Civics Academy has already attracted strong interest from the community, with 30 students registered to participate in the program's first year, initially closing registration within three days of the launch.

Village officials hope the academy will become an annual tradition that continues to inspire young residents to become informed, engaged members of the Homewood community.