A delegation of five North Carolina 4-H youth and three adults represented North Carolina 4-H by attending National 4-H Conference 2022.  Four youth delegates attended the event in Crystal City, Virginia and one delegate joined the conference virtually.  The North Carolina delegation joined more than 200 youth and adults representing 4-H programs across the country.  During the conference, they gathered to exchange ideas, gain knowledge to share back at home, and develop recommendations to help guide the future of 4-H programs nationally and in their communities.

Attending as North Carolina representatives were Fabian Horton (Cumberland County), Sophie Perkins (Lincoln County), Josiah Scarlett (Davidson County), Anastasia Smith (Orange County), and Hannah Vagnozzi (Gaston County).  Through various conference sessions and facilitated discussions, delegates learned and shared information on current trends and issues relevant to 4-H and youth, building effective partnerships, creating innovative 4-H programs, expanding the use of technology, working with diverse groups, and impacting community needs.   During roundtable discussions, delegates made determinations as to how 4-H programs can further engage in citizenship efforts and develop young people to meet the challenges of the future.

Delegates also had the opportunity to meet with their legislators on Capitol Hill Day to represent youth from their state and discuss state 4-H programs with congressional members and their staff. The National 4-H Conference upholds a tradition dating back to 1927 when the first “National 4-H Club Camp” was held on the grounds of the National Mall in front of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  Known as the “Secretary’s Conference”, National 4-H Conference continues to be USDA’s premier youth development event.

For more information on the 4-H program in your county, including how you can attend National 4-H Conference, please contact your 4-H Agent!