More than 100 delegates for the 35th annual Kentucky 4-H Issues Conference are convening at Dale Hollow State Park in Burkesville, Kentucky, this month to learn how they can take an active role in tackling the pressing concerns affecting their home counties. 

The conference, which takes place on Nov. 14–16, brings together youth in grades 9–11 and adults from across the Commonwealth to discuss how local issues can be addressed and how they can play a significant part in the process. 

During the three-day event, delegates select an action group based on their personal interests and work together to create an action plan related to those interest areas, said Chuck Stamper, Extension specialist for 4-H Youth Development and state advisor for the conference. On the final day of the event, the groups present their proposed action plans to a conference review panel. Delegates can also apply for minigrants to support the implementation of their plans for addressing a specific issue in their home counties. 

The keynote speaker of this year’s conference, Cumberland County Judge Executive Luke King, will use his address to emphasize the importance of being civically minded and informed. In addition, Dr. Cory Curl, director of undergraduate studies at the University of Kentucky’s Martin School of Public Policy and Administration, will facilitate small-group workshops with her students to help delegates strengthen their presentation skills and learn more about community assessment tools. 

“The 4-H Issues Conference is an example of the high-quality experiences we offer youth across the state,” Stamper said. “It is especially meaningful to see youth who go back to their communities and put what they learn into action.” 

The planning team for this annual event includes Extension agents, 4-Hers, community collaborators, and state 4-H program representatives. The conference, first held in 1989, has undergone changes to remain relevant to today’s youth, but the original goal of bringing Kentucky youth and adults together to focus on local issues remains the cornerstone, Stamper said. In addition to helping Kentucky youth to participate in civic engagement and take the lead in improving their communities, the conference is also designed to meet the overall Kentucky 4-H programming goal of preparing youth to be work- and life-ready when they reach adulthood.  

“We follow the principles of positive youth development, and we hope the delegates will find a spark to lead their passions in civic engagement,” Stamper said. 

To learn more about the Kentucky 4-H Issues Conference and other opportunities for civic engagement within 4-H, contact the 4-H youth development agent at the McCracken County office of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service.?? 

Source: Chuck Stamper, Ed.D., Extension Specialist for 4-H Youth Development