Hi, 4-H friends and family!
Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador
As the air cools and the harvest season gets underway, there is a lot to celebrate and reflect on from recent events, and plenty to look forward to.
Here’s a roundup of highlights, things to review and what’s ahead for Minnesota 4-H.
Reflecting on the Minnesota State Fair
This year’s Minnesota State Fair was nothing short of great. With a total attendance of over 1.9 million people across the 12 days, it was the fifth-best attended fair in Minnesota's history.
The fairgrounds were packed with energy, smiles and thousands of 4-H youth showcasing their hard work and talents.
In total, more than 5,500 4-H members participated in state fair events, representing nearly every county in Minnesota. Within the 4-H Building and animal barns, there were more than 7,000 project entries submitted by around 4,400 youth.
Exhibits ranged from livestock to fine arts, engineering to performing arts, and more, all reflecting the diversity and creativity of our 4-H community.
One of the most inspiring events was the Minnesota Livestock Breeders Association (MLBA) 4-H Purple Ribbon Auction, where over $1.2 million was raised for 115 youth exhibitors, including $140,000 of that going directly to scholarship awards for 56 youth.
These funds not only celebrate excellence in agriculture and project work but also directly invest in the future of Minnesota’s youth leaders.
4-H'ers exhibit learning at state showcase events
The 2025 Minnesota 4-H State Horse Show was another prime example of 4-H youth members' dedication and heart. Over 680 youth participated this year, representing counties from every corner of the state. From western pleasure to trail, showmanship and games, these youth and their horses demonstrated months—even years—of preparation.
Similarly, the 2025 Minnesota 4-H State Dog Show brought together over 350 4-H members and about 415 dogs to compete in obedience, agility and showmanship. It was truly a celebration of the bond between handler and dog, with lots of smiles, wagging tails and fun.
The 2025 4-H Shooting Sports and Wildlife Invitational (State Shoot) had about 800 youth participants. Competitors took part in a variety of disciplines, including archery, BB gun, standard air rifle, 3-position air rifle, air pistol, 22 rifle, muzzleloading, trap and silhouette. In addition, 5-stand for shotgun was new this year. During State Shoot, youth had the opportunity to show their time commitment, understanding of safety and project learning.
Looking ahead to National 4-H Week
Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to celebrate National 4-H Week from Oct. 5-11.
This year’s theme, Grow With Us, is all about inviting others into the 4-H experience— whether that means bringing a friend to a meeting, sharing your 4-H story to others or on social media, or helping your club put up a local display to show what 4-H is all about.
Be sure to follow Minnesota 4-H on Instagram for a chance to win some great prizes during the week!
Statewide service project focuses on disaster relief efforts
We’re also excited to officially announce this year’s Minnesota 4-H Statewide Service Project theme: Disaster Relief and Emergency Response.
Across Minnesota and beyond, many communities have been impacted by natural disasters - from flooding and wildfires to storms and emergencies.
This year we are looking to support relief efforts through many different ways like creating emergency kits, collecting supplies and spreading awareness.
More resources and ideas will be shared soon, so be on the lookout. In the meantime, please share your ideas for the Disaster and Relief service theme on our Padlet.
Take time for your mental health
Coming up in October is the World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10.
In 4-H we talk a lot about head, heart, hands and health—and this day is a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health.
With the start of the school year, extracurricular activities and other responsibilities in full swing, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Remember to check in with yourself, take time to rest and support your friends and fellow members.
4-H is a community where you’ve never alone. Check out our mental health resources from last year’s statewide service project theme.
Thank you to our farming families
To all the 4-H families and members who are currently moving into harvest season, thank you. Whether you’re driving tractors, hauling grain, helping with animals or just keeping things moving, your hard work sustains not only your families but also your communities.
Agriculture is at the heart of Minnesota—we see and appreciate you more than you know.
Proud to be a part of 4-H
Thank you for an incredible season of fairs and showcase events full of learning, leading and connecting. I’m so proud to be part of the amazing 4-H community, and I'm excited to see what more the year brings.
Let’s continue to lead with our hearts and grow together to make a difference in the months ahead.
Sincerely,
Bella N., Steele County
Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador