The City of Griffin hosts multiple programs designed to offer Griffin-Spalding residents the opportunity to learn more about local government. Programs go behind the scenes and experience the wide range of government functions, services, activities, challenges, and how to get more involved. Programs are designed for both adults, 18 years or older, and youth, 15 years and younger. Programs are free to attend. Youth programs are limited to the first twenty campers due to safety and require a parent meeting prior to the start of camp in order to attend. For additional questions on Citizens’ Academies or Youth Camps, please contact Danielle Hancock at 770-229-6408 or email dbhancock@cityofgriffin.com.

 

Citizens’ Government Academy

 9-week adult program with hands-on activities and open discussion for an in-depth look into the City of Griffin. Participants will have the opportunity to meet the City Manager, tour City facilities, and learn from each City department on what they do and how they do it. Citizens’ Government Academy is held on Thursday evenings from 6pm to 8pm, with dinner provided at each class. The 2026 Citizens’ Government Academy will run from Thursday, September 10, 2026, through Thursday, November 5, 2026. Registration is required. The registration deadline is August 28, 2026. For more information, please email Danielle Hancock at dbhancock@cityofgriffin.com. To register, click here.

 

Citizens’ Public Safety Academy

An 8-week adult program with the Griffin Police Department and Griffin Fire-Rescue. Participants will learn firsthand about public safety operations through a series of lectures, field trips, simulated activities, and other training experiences similar to those an actual police officer or firefighter receives. Citizens’ Public Safety Academy is held on Thursday evenings from 6pm to 8pm, with dinner provided at each class. The 2026 Citizens’ Public Safety Academy will run from Thursday, March 26, 2026, through Thursday, May 14, 2025. Registration is required. The registration deadline is March 13, 2026. For more information and to register, please call Lt. Brandon Walden at 770-229-6450 ext. 589.

 

PD Youth Camp

A 4-day summer camp for children who are 11 years old to 15. Campers will learn (Nerf) gun safety, effective driving (with golf carts), SWAT, and more. The 2026 PD Youth Camp will run Monday, June 15, 2026, through Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 8:30am to 3pm. Lunch, snacks, and drinks will be provided. Registration is required. Registration begins May 4, 2026, and the deadline is May 22, 2026. Space is limited to 20 students. For more information and to register, please call Capt. Krueger-Hayes at 770-229-6450.

Citizens’ Government Academy Jr.

A 4-day summer camp for children who are 11 years old to 15. Campers will go behind the scenes to experience the wide range of government functions through hands-on activities, facility tours, and engaging experiences that showcase what makes the City of Griffin great. The 2026 Citizens’ Government Academy Jr. will run Monday, June 8, 2026, through Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 8:30am to 3pm daily. Lunch, snacks, and drinks will be provided. Registration is required. Registration begins May 4, 2026, and the deadline is May 22, 2026. Space is limited to 30 students. To register, email Danielle Hancock at dbhancock@cityofgriffin.com.

 

Camp Fire

A 5-day summer camp for children who are 11 years old to 15. Campers will gain firsthand experience of a firefighter's role while learning fire safety, how to use equipment, and the importance of the job. The 2026 Camp Fire is Monday, June 22, 2026, through Friday, June 26, 2025, from 8:30am to 3pm. Lunch, snacks, and drinks will be provided. Registration is required. Registration begins May 4, 2026, and the deadline is May 22, 2026. Space is limited to 20 students. To register, visit the Fire Administrative Headquarters at 1420 Ellis Road.