With many years of a non-existent 4-H council, there has been a gap in youth leadership opportunities and limited efforts in coordinating clubs and activities for Green County youth. In addition to a lack of engagement opportunities, without a functioning council, 4-H members had little to no chance of providing feedback for decision making, event planning or county wide leadership activities and limited their voice for any local programming. 

The initial goal of the new year with a new agent was to reestablish the Green County 4-H Council to help guide the program and aid in a smooth transition. Parents and community members came together with extension personnel to outline by-laws, clarify officer roles and recruitment.

An initial meeting was held in February in which 10 adults and 3 youth were present and engaged. Elections were held and the newly established 4-H council was formed and dove in to the task at hand by setting goals and offering support to extension personnel.

Within five months two volunteers were certified to coach archery and a new club was formed, financial accounts were brought up to date with university policies, twelve new volunteers completed the volunteer application process, the council provided a $100 discount for every camper to attend camp and camp attendance records were the highest they had been in a number of years, reaching the second highest attendance in more than 20 years. 

Parents and youth reported a deeper connection to the 4-H program and an increased confidence in the future of the program as well as increased communication. Volunteers reported a renewed sense of collaboration, community and youth empowerment. 

The reestablishment of the 4-H Council has given new life to the program and created a ripple effect of positive engagement, collaboration and leadership and has given a voice to the youth of Green County. An investment of the community in the governance of 4-H programs can strengthen the program today and prepare new leaders for tomorrow.