Pike 4-H Teens Hone Leadership Skills through 4-H Volunteer Forum

      During 2020 forty-two youth members completed Kentucky 4-H Leadership Boot Camp.  Of this number, seven are from Pike County.   According to Dr. Rachel Nobel, “Participants were from communities across the state. 97.6% of the participants reported that due to their involvement in 4-H Leadership Boot Camp they are now prepared to apply for a Kentucky 4-H State Officer position or state leadership board. 100% felt more confident in an interview setting, understand the importance of an elevator speech, value the act of showing appreciation to others, and understand the value of teamwork. 97.6% of 4-H Leadership Boot Camp participants believe they will be better leaders and will be able to easily implement skills they learned when they return home.”

     This same group of 4-H Teens, also attended the Southern Regional 4-H Teen Conference in Tennessee. Of the 4-H Teen Club, seven are applying for the State 4-H Teen Council positions and one is running to be a State Officer.  Of this seven, two are returning State 4-H Teen Council members. 

      Bix reported, “I learned a lot at it, the 4-H Volunteer Forum.  I learned how to shake hands and such things as how to properly hold a plate and eat properly.”  Kiersten stated, “I found it very informative as being a 4-H members running for a state officer position.  It helped me with my confidence skills and all the necessities that I will need to help me with this process.”  Though not in Boot Camp, another 4-H member, Ciera took workshops during the Volunteer Forum.  She stated, “During the 4-H Volunteer Forum, I learned techniques to use in teaching and learning horticulture for (competition at) the Kentucky State Fair.   Once home, I put these skills to good use.”   Emily stated, I learned how to correctly write a resume; I have already used these skills at schools.  These skills help me succeed.”  4-H is helping to make the best, better and building our leadership for the future!