4-H Ambassadors 'discover their element'

The 2016 4-H Club Fall Ambassador Training was a complete success. More than 100 ambassadors and youth leaders from all over the state attended to participate in workshops and meetings and listen to motivational speakers. Madeline Snell and Tressa Lyscio from Sanders County attended. As ambassadors strive to represent 4-H to their community, they came together on Oct. 20-22 in Bozeman for the purpose of learning leadership skills. “Discover Your Element” was the theme of the weekend.

Speakers, workshops and meetings are the heart of these educational weekends. This training was no exception. The talks included information on what comprises a good leader: who good leaders are, and how they act. Additionally, speakers covered the four Cs of Community: Curiosity (before criticism), Compassion, Courage, and Commitment. With plenty of humor and motivation, the speakers also demonstrated polite and effective ways to deal with difficult people. Everyone benefited from this type of leadership information and practice. Participating in the workshops was both fun and educational for the students as the topics are varied.

The State Ambassador Meeting addressed several important items. The upcoming Week of Service (April 9-17) was discussed. Each district plans an activity to serve their community during this time; service and citizenship have always been staples of 4-H. Plans are also underway for the Citizenship Seminar and Legislative Breakfast.

In January, delegates will meet in Helena to participate in this citizenship-in-action event designed to educate Montana youth about the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Activities associated with this event are bill writing, a Montana history bowl competition, a service project, and the Legislative Breakfast. During the Legislative Breakfast, delegates will have the opportunity to meet and dine with Montana legislators. It provides an opportunity to share the successes of 4-H, discuss current issues and learn about the legislative process.

The Ambassador Fall Training wrapped up by providing time for each of the 8 4-H districts to meet.

The world is changing at a fast pace in terms of technology, population and jobs. 4-H is unique because it teaches life skills that are never outdated, including public speaking, goal setting, community service and leadership.

To learn more about 4-H in Sanders County, contact the Sanders County Extension Service at 406-827-6934.