Hello, 4-H families!
Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador
With school now in full swing, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come over the summer and the experiences I’ll carry with me into the school year.
Looking ahead with this year's ambassador team
In July, our 4-H State Ambassador team came together for orientation.
We learned more about the history and programs of 4-H and participated in different skill-building activities to help us become stronger leaders. We also had the opportunity to get to know our fellow ambassadors.
Personally, I enjoyed learning more about how each of my teammates is involved in 4-H and hearing how their experiences are both similar and different from my own. It reminded me that one of the best parts of 4-H is that everyone can find their own place within the program.
We're looking ahead to Building Leadership and Understanding (BLU) coming this February. I’m excited for our team to put what we’ve learned into action and create amazing experiences for other 4-H youth at this year's BLU.
Building skills and connections through State Arts-In
With the Minnesota State Fair over, I want to reflect on one of the biggest experiences I’ve had this summer and some of the lessons I want to carry with me. In mid-August, before the state fair began, I participated in a 4-H program called State Arts-In.
Similar to County Arts-In, State Arts-In is open to 4-H youth who have completed grades 9 and above. It is a performing arts program where youth can participate as band members, technical crew members, performers or, the area I am involved in, the costume crew. Together, these teams work to put on a theatrical musical during the state fair.
This was my third year being a part of State Arts-In as a costumer, and I continue to think it is an amazing opportunity to grow in both skills and teamwork.
When I first joined State Arts-In three summers ago, I was nervous and had no idea what to expect. I never could have anticipated how much the experience would mean to me. It quickly became one of the most extraordinary environments I have ever been a part of. The reason I come back year after year is the people who make it so amazing.
State Arts-In is a place where I can truly be myself, meet people from all across Minnesota and form friendships that I never would have made otherwise. There is something special about being surrounded by people who share your interests while also bringing their own unique experiences and perspectives.
Because State Arts-In puts such a strong focus on building connections, I feel more prepared going into my senior year of high school. It has taught me the importance of trying new things, stepping outside of my comfort zone and being open to the people and opportunities around me.
Just like so many other 4-H programs, State Arts-In has been a place of growth for me. I’m excited to see how the lessons and connections I’ve gained through 4-H continue to shape me throughout my senior year and beyond.
I also want to give a shout out to all participants who are taking part in the state showcases for shooting sports and wildlife, horse and dog.
Thank you for taking the time to read and reflect with me.
I hope everyone is having a wonderful September and a great start to the school year!
Elsa S., Anoka County
Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador