Over 700 youth from 42 states and Puerto Rico participated in workshops, listened to speakers on a variety of topics, performed community service, and shared information about their own states and programs at the 2023 National 4-H Congress, held Nov. 24-28 in Atlanta, GA.
Faribault County’s Martha P. was one of the 4-H’er’s countrywide selected to attend the congress. According to Martha, the event was open to various groups of youth leaders in 4-H, including state 4-H Ambassadors and Ag Ambassadors. Martha stated, “My favorite part of the experience was being able to spend time with my other delegates. We had a very fun group of people representing Minnesota, and they definitely made my experience even better than it already was!”
Learning Experiences
The National 4-H Congress is a five-day event that engages high school 4-H members in leadership, civic engagement, global awareness and inclusion. Delegates have the opportunity to participate in state-of-the-art educational workshops, hear from world-renowned speakers and network with other 4-H members from around the county. Additionally, each delegate has the opportunity to participate in a half-day service-learning event around Atlanta, giving each attendee the chance to help others in a variety of ways and to really experience what it is like to be a catalyst for positive change.
Martha related, “I learned how 4-H varies from state to state and the diversity of 4-H. I was also able to experience a night of culture, where I learned about different aspects of cultures, such as ballroom dancing and even African song and dance.”
Some of this year’s workshops, speakers and activities focused on mental health and physical wellness; others centered on team building and on social media. On top of all the learning experiences, the delegates were given time to socialize with each other, to sightsee around the area and to celebrate with a fancy dinner and a dance. Entertainment by many 4-H members and delegates was provided throughout the congress.
“National events can seem like a lot to prepare for but they are worth it,” Martha said. “You will gain so many connections and make so many memories in the process of having fun. I would highly recommend applying for any national 4-H experience!”
Learn More
For more information about the Faribault County 4-H program, please contact the Faribault County Extension Office at (507) 526-6240 or mnext-faribault@umn.edu or visit the Faribault County Extension page.