On October 14, 2021, four Marshall County 4-H members attended the Southeast District 4-H Teen Leadership Conference in Ada, Okla. The event is for district 4-H members 13 years of age and up. The theme for this year’s conference was “Everyday H.E.R.O.”
Participants spent the morning in interactive workshops learning about different leadership styles, lessons we can learn from superheroes, and heard from Ada Firefighter, Zack Ashcraft. Ashcraft shared his experiences in 4-H and how the skills and values he gained during that time has benefited him not only in his career, but day-to-day life. In the afternoon, attendees had the opportunity to visit interactive booths and participate in a game show, learning about the importance of driving safely, presented by Oklahoma Challenge and ThinkFast Interactive.
Each year, the Teen Leadership Conference focuses not only on leadership, but service as well. Counties within the district were encouraged to bring items for the Pontotoc Animal Welfare Society (PAWS N Ada) such as cat and dog food, towels, treats, hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies. Marshall County attendees excitedly participated in the task which helped generate 161 cleaning items, 73 pet toys, 24 lbs. dog treats, 96 lbs. cat food & litter, and 110 lbs. of dog food.
Marshall County 4-H members, Hayden Harper and Eli West concluded their time on the 2020-2021 Southeast District Leadership at the one-day conference. Hayden Harper served as the Vice-President and Eli West served as the Public Relations Officer.
During their time on the leadership team, both Hayden and Eli were instrumental in keeping the energy and positivity strong within the southeast district. In addition to leadership accomplishments, Marshall County had two members who sought to serve on the Southeast District Leadership Team for 2021-2022 and achieved their goals.
Eli West was elected to serve the Southeast District another term as Vice-President and Chance Whitman was elected as Secretary. Members in attendance included Hayden Harper, Eli West, Chance Whitman, and Colton Hunt.