Established in 1971, Close Up offers programming to educate and encourage young people to participate in their civic affairs and government.

During its first year, Close Up facilitated its first Washington High School Program with over 500 student participants from Florida, Oklahoma, and Texas.

During this six-day/five-night program students meet with elected officials on Capitol Hill, participate in structured learning activities at Washington's monuments and memorials, and engage in workshops about how the U.S. government works.

[8] The Washington Middle School Program provides students hands-on opportunities to interact with government and history.

The Teacher Program includes the study of some of Washington's lesser-known monuments and memorials that provide a forum for educators to share best practices with peers.

Close Up also serves teachers and students nationwide though its mix of Washington-based and local, as well as classroom-based learning tools such as publications, lesson plans, TV series, and videos.