Ignite by 4-H is a teen event held in Washington, D.C., for four days of inspiring and engaging panels, respected speakers, workshop sessions, entertainment and creating amazing connections.
The summit provides youth from across the country the opportunity to explore the best that 4-H offers in STEM, agriscience, healthy living and career readiness.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover exciting career paths and create an actionable plan to ignite change in your community!
This opportunity is open to all enrolled Minnesota 4-H members in grades 9-12.
Find more information on the Ignite by 4-H website.
The National Ignite by 4-H Teen Summit will be held March 12-17, 2024.
How to sign up
2024 trip dates: March 12-17, 2024 (not including travel dates)
The chosen participants will travel to Washington, D.C., with Minnesota 4-H staff.
All logistics from the Minneapolis airport to Washington, D.C., and back will be facilitated by the state 4-H office. Participants will be responsible for transportation to and from the airport and a few meals.
The application information packet includes more program details.
Financial information
- The full cost of this experience is estimated at $2,300 per person. Thanks to generous donations to the University of Minnesota Foundation, we are able to provide a significant sponsorship.
- The fee to the delegate is $250, which is due before the trip begins, but don’t let this be a barrier to application! We can assist any interested member with identifying and securing financial assistance privately. Please contact us if you have questions.
- Each delegate is recommended to plan for an additional $100 in spending money while on the trip for snacks, souvenirs and a few meals not provided in the fee.
Application
Applications are due online by Dec. 10, 2023.
Find information on how to apply in the application information packet. It's important that you review the packet before applying to ensure you understand the responsibilities of representing Minnesota 4-H at this event.
Contact us for alternative application methods if needed.
Required qualifications
- Must be/become a current and active Minnesota 4-H member (no minimum years of 4-H experience required).
- Must be in grades 9-12, at least 14 years of age, and no older than 19 as of Jan. 1, 2024.
- Must be able to attend the full event and three virtual Zoom meetings prior to departure.
- Must commit to planning and carrying out a Lead to Change project within one year of attendance.
- Note: Youth applicants in grade 12 will need to consider their ability to carry out a project given their post-high school plans.
- Must commit to positive interactions with others from diverse backgrounds, beliefs and identities.
- Must demonstrate an interest in one of the themes: STEM, agriscience or healthy living.
- Should demonstrate an ability to promote and maintain a positive representation of Minnesota 4-H.
- Must not have attended the Ignite by 4-H Summit as a delegate before.
Selection process
A committee of Minnesota 4-H staff will review all applications and identify semi-finalists for an interview if needed. Selection of up to 14 delegates and two alternates will be made in mid-December, depending on budget and applications. Finalists will be notified and asked to return an acceptance form stating whether they accept the responsibility of representing Minnesota 4-H.
Contacts
Randi Schwartz - schw1553@umn.edu
Jacquie Lonning - jlonning@umn.edu