2023 National 4-H Conference

National 4‑H Conference is the pinnacle experience in 4‑H Civic Engagement, providing the opportunity for young people (4-H age 15-18) to connect, learn, engage, lead, and impact their communities, their nation and their world. Members who are interested in attending must submit a resume and cover letter to be considered. Then only ten members are selected to represent PA 4-H.

Below the members share their experiences:

Jaidyn: My round table challenge question was "For many reasons, farmers, ranchers, farm workers, and other rural adults across the country are experiencing increased stress and mental health challenges. What role could the Cooperative Extension Service serve in helping to address farm and rural stress and mental health issues?". We were then given 2 days to work together to come up with a solution to present to the U.S. Senate. We worked alongside federal agencies like USDA and NIFA to come up with our solutions. They included online therapy, interns from Land-Grant universities, and Awareness Events, while also expanding programs and resources with additional funding. Some other events at the conference included a night National Monuments tour, Youth Career Fair, the 4-H Flag raising ceremony at the USDA headquarters, 4-H Council Congressional Breakfast, and time to explore Washington D.C.

Madison: My roundtable topic was youth leadership. We were asked by the United States Agency of International Development to come up with recommendations on how they can apply meaningful youth engagement and leadership in a variety of international development projects and strategies. My round table group and I came up with ideas ensuring that young leaders' ideas, perspectives, skills, and strengths are valued on the international level.