This year from Hardin County, 11 actively involved teens were able to attend and enjoy the annual 4-H Teen Conference held at the University of Kentucky campus.  The objectives of Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference were: develop leadership and teamwork skills, improve communication skills, foster civic engagement, expand knowledge and skills related to 4-H core content areas, gain club, county and state 4-H program skills, have fun, create a sense of belonging, expand social skills through networking, develop youth-adult partnerships, and become acquainted with the University of Kentucky to aid in college and career readiness of Kentucky 4-H’ers. The annual event attracted 704 individuals to the University of Kentucky; 557 youth and 147 adults from 98 Kentucky counties. The event was sponsored by the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment Cooperative Extension Service 4-H Program, the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, and Farm Credit Mid-America.  

Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference provides a dynamic opportunity for youth to experience life on campus while gaining independence and giving them an opportunity to see themselves outside of their typical environment. 81% of youth surveyed reported that Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference was their first experience staying overnight in a UK dormitory and this experience was the first visit to the University of Kentucky for 44% of youth. 100% of Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference delegates attended a College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment campus tour and Ag Ambassadors presentation.

Through choosing a major and minor 4-H members have a chance to develop a network of peers and adults from across the Commonwealth in a caring and safe environment. Delegates select a major of their choice that align with the Kentucky 4-H core content areas and degree programs offered at the University of Kentucky. Delegates have the opportunity to build networks with mentors in their field of interest and connect with like-minded peers. Thirty-three programs and departments across the University of Kentucky and in the local community provided majors for delegates to participate. As a result of 4-H Teen Conference 91% of delegates surveyed reported that they are likely to attend the University of Kentucky. As a result of participating in their major, delegates reported their interest in majoring or finding a career in one of the areas they explored at Teen Conference.