Benton County 4-H member attends national 4-H conference

BENTON COUNTY - A delegation of Arkansas 4-H youth representing four counties, including Benton County, attended National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C. The Arkansas delegation returned home from a week in which more than 270 youth and adults representing 4-H programs across the country gathered to exchange ideas, gain knowledge to share back at home and develop recommendations to help guide the future of 4-H programs nationally and in their communities.

Sarah Mills, from Gentry, represented Benton County at the April 6-11 conference. Through various conference sessions and facilitated discussions, delegates learned and shared information on current trends and issues relevant to 4-H and youth, building effective partnerships, creating innovative 4-H programs, expanding the use of technology, working with diverse groups and impacting community needs. At the completion of roundtable discussions, delegates gave presentations to federal agencies to recommend innovative change and represent youth voice.

Delegates also had the opportunity to meet with their legislators on Capitol Hill Day to represent youth from their state and discuss state 4-H programs with congressional members and their staff.

The National 4-H Conference upholds a tradition dating back to 1927 when the first “National 4-H Club Camp” was held on the grounds of the National Mall in front of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Known as the “Secretary’s Conference,” National 4-H Conference continues to be USDA’s premier youth development event. More information about the National 4-H Conference can be found at http://www.4-h.org/4-h-conference/.

For more information on the Benton County 4-H Youth Development program, please contact Janice Shofner or Jessica Street at 271-1060.