Close Up Advisors
Heidi Hanson Shari Knutson
Close Up Foundation is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that helps middle and high school students learn about government, democracy, and active citizenship through hands-on civic education programs. The organization offers students opportunities to travel to places like Washington, D.C., participate in discussions and debates on current issues, meet elected officials and policy experts, and work with students from across the country.
Students in Close Up programs take part in activities such as government simulations, leadership workshops, community service projects, historical site visits, and collaborative problem-solving exercises. Many programs also encourage students to explore different perspectives, practice respectful dialogue, and develop leadership and communication skills.
The goals of Close Up are to inspire young people to become informed, engaged citizens and to promote values such as civic responsibility, critical thinking, tolerance, respect for diverse viewpoints, and active participation in democracy.