Success StoryTeens Learn and Grow at Teen Conference



Teens Learn and Grow at Teen Conference

Author: Kimberly Ragland

Planning Unit: Boyle County CES

Major Program: Leadership 4-H Core Curriculum

Plan of Work: Leaders Develop and Expand Leadership Skills

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

Through the 94th Annual Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference, 8 4-Hers from Boyle County developed leadership and teamwork skills, improved communication skills, became involved in civic life, and expanded their knowledge related to 4-H core content areas. The participants fostered a sense of belonging through networking, engaged in youth-adult partnerships, and became acquainted with the University of Kentucky to aid in college and career readiness. Through 4-H Teen Conference, all delegates gained six hours of instruction in a core content area of their choice led by an expert in the field.  Eighty-seven percent of delegates learned something new by participating in the core content area of their choice. As a result of 4-H Teen Conference delegates reported they are interested in learning more about majoring or finding a career in the following areas (in order of interest): science, engineering and technology, health, agriculture, leadership/citizenship, communication, expressive arts, family consumer sciences, and natural resources. Five of the 8  delegates reported they were considering attending the University of Kentucky as a result of attending 4-H Teen Conference.

An additional component of 4-H Teen Conference was a leadership development experience supported by Farm Credit Mid-America, where adults and 4-H youth leaders led delegates through a common leadership experience. All delegates experienced the opportunity to network and belong to a group of individuals, explore personal communication styles, and work in a team environment through a community service project. Three-quarters of 4-H Teen Conference delegates reported feeling connected to their leadership group. Forty-two community service projects were completed with the assistance of a grant through the Bluegrass Community Foundation. Over thirty community serving organizations collaborated with Kentucky 4-H to provide the community service experience of the conference. All of Boyle County's delegates reported feeling like they had the opportunity to give back through the community service project.


Boyle County 4-Hers expressed their satisfaction with 4-H Teen Conference, “After attending Teen Conference on the UK Campus, I think I will attend the College of Agriculture.  I know the campus and met staff who made me feel like a member of the College already."  Another stated, "I always feel at home at 4-H events.  I can be myself and try new things without being afraid of being made fun of.  4-H makes me feel like I can be successful at whatever I try."  






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