June is one of the busiest and most exciting months for 4-H. As soon as school lets out, our calendar quickly fills with workshops, competitions, camps, conferences, and travel opportunities. It’s a time when our youths dive into hands-on learning, take on new challenges, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
This June was no exception. From skill-building events and shows to leadership camps, state conferences, and even an exchange trip to Franklin County, Missouri, our 4-H members stayed on the go, learning, growing and making the best better.
In addition to the many workshops and conferences, we hosted two exciting camps that gave our younger members hands-on opportunities to learn and grow. Our Cloverbud Day Camp is a special day for our 5 to 7-year-old members. During this camp, our Cloverbuds learned about communication, S.T.E.M., sewing and cake decorating. It was a fun day full of creativity, discovery, and the chance for them to try something new.
We also held a 2-day Adventure Day Camp, which was packed with even more learning and excitement. Youths explored S.T.E.M. activities, practiced first aid skills, learned about being inclusive, and even learned some basic American Sign Language. Adventure Day Camp offered a unique opportunity for participants to gain valuable life skills while having a great time with their friends.
One of the highlights of both camps was the leadership provided by our older 4-H members who served as camp counselors. These dedicated teens led activities, engaged younger members and worked hard to make sure everyone was learning, laughing and feeling included. Serving as a camp counselor not only gives our older members a chance to give back but also helps them develop their own leadership, teamwork and mentoring skills. Watching these young leaders step up and guide the next generation of 4-H members is a powerful example of how 4-H positively impacts youths at every age.
4-H is about helping young people grow into capable, resilient leaders who care about their communities. Every workshop, every project, and every event helps build life skills that will stick with our youths for years to come. They're not just raising animals or giving demonstrations; they're developing leadership, responsibility, problem-solving skills and building the confidence to try new things.
To help sustain this meaningful work, we would like to invite you to our annual fundraiser “4-H Night at the Bar-D” on Friday, Sept. 12 at the Bar-D Chuckwagon. It’s a family-friendly fundraiser featuring delicious food, great entertainment and a chance to help support the next generation of leaders in La Plata County. Tickets are on sale now and can be picked up at the La Plata County Extension Office at the Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave., Durango. You can also purchase tickets from the local 4-H members you know.
Thank you, La Plata County, for continuing to believe in and support our youths. Together, we are making the best better.
Angela Fountain is the La Plata County 4-H youths development agent. Reach her at angela.fountain@co.laplata.co.us or 382-6460.
