4-H program has many opportunities beyond state’s borders

There are also events such as the Omniplex Camp-In, district leadership conferences and county camps. However, for club members who are dedicated and stick with the program, there are many things to do outside of Oklahoma.

 “There are many excellent opportunities for 4-H’ers to participate in out-of-state activities and conferences,” said Tracy Branch, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service 4-H events coordinator. “4-H offers trips to Washington, D.C., Kansas City, Denver and Atlanta. Oklahoma 4-H’ers have the opportunity to see a lot of different places around the country through their involvement in the 4-H program, especially if they stay involved through high school.”

All counties have different ways of selecting delegates to take part in the various out-of-state trips. Some select delegates based on recordbooks, other counties may have a point system and some delegates may be chosen through an interview process.

 “Not only do club members learn new things at the fun and educational workshops on these out-of-state trips, but they also get to learn more about the area through exciting tours and other events,” she said.

Delegates who are chosen for Citizenship Washington Focus have the opportunity to travel to the nation’s capital each summer. CWF is a week-long citizenship program conducted by the National 4-H Council for youth ages 15 to 19.

Branch said this trip is a chance for young people to broaden their appreciation and practice respect for themselves and others, increase individual commitment to citizen involvement and understand the importance of civic and social responsibilities.

The Kansas City Global Conference takes place in the spring. This conference is designed to help youth prepare for the future by providing them with learning opportunities, hands-on activities and cultural events. Many of the educational workshops deal with a variety of career opportunities.

 “High school students may have an idea of what they want to major in when they go to college, but the Kansas City trip could open new doors to careers they hadn’t even considered,” Branch said. “This conference is a great opportunity to learn about different cultures from around the world. They also take part in service learning projects.”

National 4-H Congress takes place immediately following Thanksgiving in Atlanta and is designed to address the needs and issues of youth while helping to develop capable, competent and caring citizens.

Delegates for National 4-H Congress are selected through an interview process during State 4-H Roundup in May.

Denver National Western Roundup is a combination of a youth leadership conference and national contests. This event takes place the first week of January.

“This trip is such a fun trip for everyone who participates,” Branch said. “Not only do they learn new things, but they also get to tour different places in Colorado and go skiing.”

 Most of the out-of-state trips are designed for club members who are at least 15 years old. That is why it is important to stay involved in the program.

“There aren’t many clubs that offer the travel and cultural opportunities that the 4-H program offers,” Branch said. “If you get involved and stick with it, you’ll have the chance to see a lot of our great country.”

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Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.

Trisha Gedon
Communications Specialist
Agricultural Communications Services
Oklahoma State University
136 Printing Services Building
Stillwater, OK  74078
405-744-3625 (phone)
405-744-5739 (fax)
trisha.gedon@okstate.edu