In a few days, 4-H teens and volunteers from across the state of Pennsylvania will gather in State College for the 2014 State Leadership Conference/Leaders Forum. The theme for the youth component is "Leadership Makes You a Superhero" with 18 workshops from which to choose. Meanwhile, adults (volunteers, leaders, and Extension staff) have choices from more than 40 workshops featuring horse, livestock, outdoor education, sewing, science and general topics.
Leadership is one of the main components of the 4-H Positive Youth Development program, which is based on 8 Essential Elements:
1. A Positive Relationship with a Caring Adult
2. An Inclusive Environment
3. A Safe Emotional and Physical Environment
These help to meet a child's need for BELONGING.
4. Opportunity for Mastery
5. Engagement in Learning
These help to meet a child's need for MASTERY.
6. Opportunity to see Oneself as an Active Participant in the Future
7. Opportunity for Self-Determination
These help to meet a child's need for INDEPENDENCE.
8. Opportunity to Value and Practice Service to Others
This addresses a child's need for GENEROSITY.
Motivator Max Dupree said, "The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant." (Forbes' 100 Best Quotes on Leadership)
The above elements address reality--what does a child need for success? Belonging, Mastery, Independence, Generosity. I don't want to wait until last to say thank you, so I'll say it now--thanks to all those who work with the McKean County 4-H program, whether you are volunteers, members, supporters, or my boss! In between, I hope that I continue to be your servant. But there is always room for growth. That is what 4-H is all about--growing! Are YOU into it?
