ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – To help prepare the next generation to get involved in state and local government, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, talked to local girl scouts during their “Day of Democracy” earlier this month.
“When it comes to the future of our state, it is critical that young people understand not only how important state and local government is, but also that they are able to make a big difference just by getting involved,” said Manley. “There have been a number of bills that pass solely because young people decided to take action and work for the change they want to see in their community.”
During the “Day of Democracy,” Manley spoke about the importance of voting and being engaged with their community in order to help them complete their “Talk to an Expert” badge. She also answered various questions that the Girl Scouts had about government.
“As a former Girl Scout for much of my childhood and a sister to an Eagle Scout, I know how important the scouts are to so many girls and boys throughout our state,” said Manley. “Growing up with a single mother, the scouts became a second family to me, as they do with so many children who have working parents. The scouts teach our kids vital lessons that will help them throughout their lives, such as respecting yourself and others, working in groups on projects, and other basic life and leadership skills. I am forever grateful to the scouting community, and was honored to be able to participate in this “Day of Democracy” and do my part to help prepare our children to make a positive impact in their community.”