Each year, the La Plata County 4-H Council elects new youth officers to represent our organization.
The team of officers works together throughout the year to plan, organize and implement a variety of community events. In addition, officers gain skills to run effective business meetings using parliamentary procedures.
This year’s team consists of: Iain McCourt as president, Oakley Felker as vice president, Paige Porter as secretary, Halle Moore as treasurer, Breann Waddell as reporter and Katherine McCourt as parliamentarian.
It’s amazing to see the team-building and growth members exhibit by taking on these leadership roles. Members will actively work on their public speaking skills. This occurs at monthly meetings, where officers will be required to give reports and discuss motions on business items.
We also encourage our members to share what is going on throughout the county at their individual clubs. La Plata County 4-H has 16 clubs and specialty club councils in categories such as horse, livestock judging, shooting sports and fair royalty. County Council meetings keep everyone informed of all the great things happening in our communities.
It is really important that we promote “youth voice” in our members. Our community needs to hear from the younger population. Young people can provide critical input on many issues facing our society. Including “youth voice” in decision-making is essential. It also prepares these young adults with civil discourse skills for working with a diversity of people throughout life.
The County Council will be contributing its voice this year to topics such as diversity and inclusion, mental health and suicide prevention awareness, substance abuse prevention, workforce development, and health and human wellness.
Our members will connect with adult role models to foster positive connections for meaningful change. The 4-H program is proud to be able to establish these youth-adult partnerships. We feel these working relationships allow our members to thrive.
Enrollment has begun for the 2017-18 calendar year. If you are interested in becoming an adult volunteer or thinking about getting your child involved, contact us at the Extension Office at the La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave. We will be pleased to educate you about the best roles and opportunities we provide.
Also, I would like to let everyone know about the 4-H Livestock Judging Citrus Fruit and Cider Sale. The La Plata County 4-H Livestock Judging group holds this annual fundraiser. This helps the team with traveling expenses throughout the year.
Livestock judging is a great way for young people to develop analytical and public speaking skills. The judging team travels all around the state and regionally competing in contests. The team has had great success in the past. Many 4-H members have gone on to receive college scholarships because of their participation in the judging program.
You can pick up order forms in the Extension Office or with Livestock Judging team members. You can order apples, lemons, oranges, cider and much more. This is a great fundraiser to support a great program.
Finally, I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
Greg Felsen is the La Plata County 4-H youth development agent. Reach him at gregory.felsen@co.laplata.co.us or 382-6463.
Greg Felsen
