Six Lyon County Teens, including two African American youth, participated in the state Annual 4-H Teen Conference. There were 557 total participants. Youth 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 and expand social skills through networking, developing youth-adult partnerships and become acquainted with the University of Kentucky. They experience life on campus while gaining independence and an opportunity to see themselves outside of their typical environment. Youth stay in the dorms and eat most meals in the college dining areas.

The participants choose a major and minor and network with peers and adults from across the Commonwealth in a caring and safe environment. Participation in these interests helps with finding their career interest. They participated in one of 34 service projects valued at $130 for Lyon County participants. The program included the Kentucky 4-H Clover Fest as an opening event and a formal dance. One Lyon County 4-H member served on the State Teen Leadership Council, helping to plan and conduct the conference.

Eighty-one percent of participants believe that developing leadership skills is one of the greatest benefits of 4-H Teen Conference.