A bright group of Macon-Bibb County teenagers is getting hands-on experience with how the local government operates, and how to make connections for the future.

The Georgia Civic Awareness Program for Students (GCAPS) program included a February trip to the Gold Dome in Atlanta, where the teens met with Governor Nathan Deal and state legislators. After the visit, the crew traveled to Suwanee, in Gwinnett County, to meet with city officials. The students learned how leaders and residents worked together to turn an empty space into a bustling community center – complete with shops, restaurants, public art, and a multi-use park.

Click here for a MaconBibbTV feature on this trip, and click here for pictures.