Growth in Meagher County 4-H

Published: 2022
By Makayla Paul

Meagher County 4-H had vast growth in 2021-2022. Youth membership increased from 44 to 60 members and volunteer participation increased by enrolling nine new volunteers. Educational opportunities increased from previous years. Nutrition workshops were hosted for livestock members and eight members attended animal quality assurance training. A Record Book educational workshop was hosted to teach members about 4-H record books and how to correctly complete them. There were 22 members at the training and one member wrote in their record book “record book training was good, as I had never really been told what goes in this.” Educational opportunities provide members with the resources needed to be successful in their individual projects. In 2022, Meagher County 4-H teen members took advantage of leadership training opportunities during the 4-H year. It has been five years since Meagher County had members participate in statewide events such as Rec Lab and Montana 4-H Congress. Two members participated in the Leadership Academy hosted by Montana 4-H. One member attended Rec Lab, a statewide leadership camp for members 13 years and older. This camp provides members with the opportunity to enhance their leadership, communication, and team-building skills. The event also provides an opportunity for members to meet 4-H peers from across the state to build relationships. Three teen counselors attended the 2022 Multi-County 4-H camp; it was the first time in four years Meagher County had teen counselors attend. In July, two members attended Montana 4-H Congress. One member placed first in the Illustrated Talk competition and earned a trip to National 4-H Congress. This member also applied and was accepted to be on the National 4-H Leadership team, which will include travel to Atlanta, GA. As a result of increased participation in youth leadership opportunities, members learn how to voice their thoughts and ideas, build their network of peers and adults, and develop their skills to plan and facilitate activities. They are also able to evaluate activities and identify their own strengths and weaknesses to become better community leaders. The members who have taken the opportunity to expand leadership skills have brought those skills back to Meagher County. They are leading workshops, committees, and continuing to become influential leaders of the Meagher County 4-H program and their local communities. Meagher County hopes to use this momentum to increase member participation in youth leadership.