Chambana Sun

Youth delegates from across the United States recently participated in round table discussions and presentations to federal partner agencies at the National 4-H Conference, held from April 14-19. The conference aims to empower young people to create positive social change within their communities and provides an opportunity for them to practice skills in a real-world setting.

Delegations of 4-H youth, aged between 15 and 19, were sent by Land-Grant University 4-H programs to participate in the event. These delegates prepared briefings on important topics during the four weeks leading up to the conference. This preparation ensured they were ready to connect, learn, engage, lead, and create a positive impact upon arrival. The U.S. Department of Agriculture facilitated this event as part of its civic engagement initiatives.

The Illinois delegation for 2023 included Andrea Schaffnit from Adams County, Emma Hughes from Montgomery County, and Alex Paul from Wayne County. During the conference, these delegates presented their briefings virtually to federal officials based in Washington D.C. They also engaged in personal development experiences aimed at increasing their knowledge and skills while discussing issues affecting youth and 4-H programming nationwide.

"The National 4 H Conference is the pinnacle experience in 4-H civic engagement," said a representative involved with the program. It offers young individuals opportunities to "connect, learn, engage, lead," impacting not only their local communities but also having broader national implications.

Illinois 4-H is recognized as a flagship youth development program administered through the University of Illinois Extension's College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. The program focuses on growing true leaders who are prepared for both life today and future careers by using hands-on approaches that encourage independence among participants.

Independent research highlights significant impacts of the 4-H experience: participants are four times more likely to contribute positively to their communities; twice as likely to make healthier lifestyle choices; twice as likely to be civically active; and twice as likely to engage in STEM programs.