JamesBuchanon Principal Juvenile Justice Centers at Lee County School District a Boys State Alumnus

Empowering Future Leaders: Support Boys State
Are you passionate about supporting the next generation of leaders for the Dunbar Community?
Allow me to introduce myself: I am Elbert Zeigler, the Boys State Chairman for the American Legion Post 192 located at 3130 MLK Jr. Blvd, Fort Myers, FL. Our community is brimming with organizations connected to and concerned about the future of Dunbar, including social groups, businesses, non-profits, elected officials, candidates, churches, schools, and everyday citizens. All of these groups share a common goal: we want to see our youth step up to be the future leaders of the Dunbar and Greater Fort Myers communities.
To address this need, I would like to inform you about The American Legion Boys State program. This program is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high school students. It is a participatory program in which students become part of the operation of local, county, and state government. At Boys State, participants learn the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of franchised citizens. The training is objective and centers on the structure of city, county, and state governments operated by students elected to various offices. Instruction is also provided on the law and court system, parliamentary procedure, and Florida political history.
At Florida Boys State, citizens gain hands-on experience in leadership by taking part in the political process through role-play civic exercises, and running for office as real candidates do in the everyday world.
To be eligible, candidates must:
• Be a junior in a Florida high school (public, private, or homeschooled)
• Have at least one semester of high school remaining
• Not have previously attended Boys State
• Have parents’/guardians’ permission to attend
• Be certified by the sponsoring American Legion Post
Our Boys State Fundraiser
Our Boys State fundraiser is an incredible opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young men in our community. By donating to our cause, you can help send our boys to Boys State, where they will gain valuable leadership skills and learn about the importance of civic engagement. Each boy’s participation costs $600.00, and our goal is to fund this program for eight boys. Any additional funds raised will allow us to send more boys.
We also offer an option to make donations in memory or honor of loved ones, friends, or individuals who have made a significant impact. Pay tribute to someone special while supporting an important cause.