(From University of Missouri Extension)
Three members and one chaperone from Jasper County participated in the 80th annual Missouri 4-H State Congress, held on the University of Missouri campus in Columbia.
More than 200 Missouri 4-H members and volunteers attended the statewide leadership event, which is designed for youth entering ninth grade through those who have just completed twelfth grade. Planned by the Missouri State 4-H Council, this year’s “Glow for It” themed event welcomed 178 youth participants and 20 chaperones from across the state for several days of learning, leadership development and connection.
During State Congress, participants attended workshops on a variety of topics, connected with fellow 4-H members from throughout Missouri, explored academic programs through university department tours and celebrated at a glow-themed dance.
As part of the conference’s service-learning focus, participants collected hygiene items and created care packages for youth in foster care.
The event also featured keynote speaker Rob Jones, Director of Integrated Marketing and Communications, who encouraged youth to embrace curiosity, growth and opportunity.
“You don’t have to know exactly where you’re going,” Jones said. “But you do have to keep moving. Explore. Learn. Ask questions. Try things. Work hard. Be kind. Stay curious. And remember: the person you become ten years from now is being built by the choices you make today. So plant good seeds. The future is already growing.”
State 4-H Congress provides Missouri 4-H members with opportunities to build leadership skills, discover future educational and career pathways, and develop friendships with peers from across the state.
“State 4-H Congress was a great opportunity to meet other members from across the state and learn about the wider opportunities Missouri 4-H has to offer,” said Brett Miller, newly elected State Representative on the Missouri State 4-H Council.
Faith Calvin from Avilla 4-H was elected as the SW Regional Representative on the Missouri State 4-H Council.
Support for Missouri 4-H State Congress is provided by the Missouri 4-H Foundation in partnership with the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, Miller Family Foundation, Missouri Corn Growers Association and the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council.
Missouri 4-H, the youth development program of University of Missouri Extension, helps young people build confidence, leadership, citizenship and life skills through hands-on learning experiences that prepare them to be Beyond Ready for college, careers and life.
To learn more about 4-H opportunities in Jasper County, contact Janie Garner at 417-358-2158 or sjgarner@missouri.edu.
