ABOUT CLOSE-UP & THE TRIP
Close Up informs, inspires, and empowers young people to exercise the rights and accept the responsibilities of citizens in a democracy.
THE CLOSE-UP MISSION STATEMENT
We believe that a strong democracy requires active and informed participation by all citizens; therefore we seek to reach participants of every race, creed, geographical community, socio-economic level, and academic standing. Close Up welcomes participation on its programs without regard to gender, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or disability. To carry out our mission, we partner with educators, schools, and youth organizations throughout the country to help young people develop the skills and attitudes to become informed and engaged citizens. Since 1971, over 850,000 participants have participated in Close Up programs.
THE TRIP - Washington D.C.
Close Up’s flagship High School Program is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students to experience their government in action. From visits to Washington’s famous monuments, memorials, and institutions, to meetings with their Congressional delegation on Capitol Hill, Close Up students get a first-hand look at the American political system and consider what role they, as students, play in our democracy.
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Close Up is not just a tour, nor is it a series of lectures. Close Up takes what students learn in the classroom and brings it to life! Close Up really does make learning fun!
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Throughout the week, students explore DC and interact with students from all across the country. With the help of our program instructors, students consider how the people and events represented in DC’s memorials impact their lives today. As a non-profit, non-partisan organization, Close Up helps students learn more about their history and government while considering a variety of viewpoints. This keeps students interested, informed, and engaged. They are not just passively listening to a tour guide—they are making a personal connection with the famous places of the nation’s capital
Close Up students also get face to face with Washington insiders that play a key role in the American political system. Our seminar panels often include lobbyists, journalists, and members of the Armed Forces. These instrumental political players take time to answer questions from students and explain more about how they impact government and policy.
Additionally, our weekly ‘hot topics’ debate pits guest speakers - a liberal and a conservative- against one another as students moderate the debate and get involved in issues important to them. The program culminates with a banquet and dance, giving students the chance to unwind, say goodbye to their new friends, and reflect on what they have learned during their trip.