By Scout Nelson
Kansas is proudly sending twenty-four of its 4-H youth to represent the state at the National 4-H Congress in Atlanta. This esteemed event, set for Thanksgiving weekend, is a hallmark of 4-H's commitment to youth development and leadership.
Amy Sollock, a 4-H youth development specialist in southwest Kansas, emphasizes Congress as a platform for individual growth and a unique opportunity for participants to learn from their peers nationwide. The Congress, now in its 101st year, will witness over 800 youth from across the United States.
The Kansas delegation, comprising state 4-H project award winners and recipients of the prestigious Key Award or Centennial Award, includes:
- Allen County (Southwind District) - Kyser Nemecek.
- Butler County - Kylee Barlett and Trena Garcia.
- Cloud County (River Valley District) - Aubrey Stahlman.
- Coffey County - McKenzie Krueger.
- Crawford County (Wildcat District) - Johanna Walker.
- Finney County (West Plains District) - Baylee Hutchinson.
- Harvey County - Abby Banta.
- Johnson County - Ryan Brethour.
- Leavenworth County - Gavin Shupe.
- Lyon County - Ava Karcher.
- Marshall County - Dustin Denton.
- McPherson County - Joseph Westerman.
- Republic County (River Valley District) - Clayton Carlgren and Zachary Piroutek.
- Saline County (Central Kansas District) - Brynna Anderson and Reygan Schrock.
- Scott County (West Plains District) - Kate Rogers.
- Sedgwick County - Carly Collins and Christopher Mork.
- Shawnee County - Meredith Burgess.
- Stafford County (21 Central District) - Ian Dunn.
- Stevens County (Wild West District) - Channing Dillinger.
- Wallace County (Sunflower District) - Brennan Aldridge.
A highlight of the Congress is the community service day, where delegates participate in various service projects in Atlanta. This aligns with 4-H's core principles of leadership and civic engagement, offering a safe and enriching environment for teens.
The event, spanning from November 24-28, features not only service projects but also city tours and recreational activities. Prominent speakers at the event include a New York Times bestselling author, a motivational speaker, and notable figures from the agricultural sector.
Amy Sollock expresses her hopes for the participating youth to embrace new experiences, forge friendships, and create lasting memories. The National 4-H Congress stands as a testament to the enduring values and experiences fostered by the 4-H community.
Photo Credit: kansas-state-university
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