Hello, fellow 4-H'ers!
Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador
My name is Maddy, and I’ve been part of 4-H for over 12 years. I started as a Cloverbud and have grown through the program into a confident leader.
Today, I’m honored to serve as a Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador and share my talent of leadership with the youth around me.
National 4-H Congress experience
Last month, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the National 4-H Congress as Minnesota’s Youth Delegate Advisor. In this role, I helped lead nightly state meetings and represented Minnesota on stage by sharing fun facts with delegates from across the country.
The National 4-H Congress was held in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, where we stayed at a hotel that hosted most of the assemblies and workshops.
Minnesota was represented by nine delegates, including a mix of state and county ambassadors.
Throughout the week, we attended engaging workshops, heard from inspiring speakers, participated in service projects and team-building activities, and had plenty of fun — including dances and social events.
One of my favorite parts was meeting youth from other states and learning of ideas we can bring back to our counties and communities.
Celebrating culture and connection
A highlight of National 4-H Congress was the International Dinner and Dance. We learned how to say “Hello” from the Hawaiian delegation, experienced a traditional Sudanese dance shared by delegates from Eastern Shore, Maryland, and enjoyed cuisines from all around the world. Trying new foods and learning about different cultures made the night especially memorable.
The National 4-H Congress reminded me how big and impactful 4-H truly is. I’m grateful for the experience and excited to use what I learned to support youth and programs across Minnesota.
Interested in participating in the National 4-H Congress? It is open to youth in ambassador leadership positions and applications will be open in the spring.
We have a lot coming up this winter. Look below for some opportunities to grow and bloom in 4-H.
BLU 2026: Bloom Into Leadership
The 4-H State Ambassadors are excited to announce that this year’s Building Leadership and Understanding (BLU) theme is Bloom Into Leadership. At BLU, youth in grades 6 and up build leadership skills, make new friends and create real change in their communities.
This year, we'll be offering an overnight experience and a one-day option.
Overnight experience dates and locations
- Jan. 31-Feb. 1 at Long Lake Conservation Center in Palisade
- Feb. 7-8 at Camp Victory in Zumbro Falls
- Feb. 7-8 at Concordia Language Village in Bemidji
- Feb. 21-22 at Camp Friendship in Annandale
One-day experience date and location
- Feb. 28 at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall
Registration closes on Friday, Jan. 9. Learn more about BLU and register.
Seasonal service focus
Cold hands, warm hearts: winter weather preparedness
As temperatures drop, the 4-H State Ambassadors are encouraging clubs, counties and families to take part in our seasonal service topic of winter weather preparedness as part of our statewide service project.
Cold temperatures, snow and ice can cause accidents and emergencies. Being prepared helps keep everyone safe during Minnesota’s winter months. Winter weather can make travel difficult and create challenges for people who don’t have warm clothing, safe heating or basic supplies.
These small challenges can add up quickly during storms or extreme cold. Let’s help keep Minnesotans safe and prepared this winter.
Project learning at 4-H Horse Winter Round Up
4-H Horse Winter Round Up is an exciting three-day, two-night conference of adult and youth leadership development and 4-H horse project learning.
It's for youth in grades 6 and up who are interested in horses and includes speakers, educational workshops and many hands-on activities. This is a great opportunity to share information, network with other horse project leaders and youth, make new friends and have fun!
The conference starts on Friday, Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m. and ends on Sunday, Jan. 25 at noon.
As we kick off 2026, I want to challenge all of you to try something new: maybe it’s BLU, a new 4-H project area or a new hobby. Step a little outside of your comfort zone and maybe you’ll find something you love.
Warm regards,
Maddy B., Wilkin County
Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador