July 14, 2023
A Time for Reflection
It is very important that you know how AMAZING and AWESOME your Kansas 4-H State Team is. We finished up our summer retreat this week and the amount of work this team accomplished was fantastic. We are making great strides to have things ready to kick off the 2023-2024 4-H year with you on August 29 at 1:30 p.m. (see 4-H Growing More in 2024 – New 4-H Year Kick Off).
As I process this week and what was accomplished, I think about a trip I took earlier this month where I was able to do a lot of reflection. I reflected on things both personally and professionally. I had the opportunity to appreciate natures beauty and all that comes with it. I was able to serve a community of which I did not belong and appreciate the uniqueness of the community and its people. I also thought about all that went into my trip; how I got from point A to point B and all the talents of people along the way that served customers like me to get safely to my destination. It takes all sorts of people to make the world go round and make experiences successful.
As I reflect on my 19 + years with K-State Research and Extension, the teams that we have had before us have laid the foundation for the 4-H program as it is today. We have had some growing pains with changes that have occurred, and we have also had positive outcomes from challenges. Looking historically at 4-H and Extension, the organizations have had to change with the times based on the needs of the people we serve.
During this county fair season, I encourage you to take time to reflect on the role you play within your community and Extension program. What are the programmatic outcomes you see at the county fair because of your work? How can you build upon these outcomes and elevate the youth development experience for the participants as you begin to plan for the next programming year?
I know county fairs can be stressful to say the least. Yet when you reflect on the programmatic outcomes, see the youth having fun and making new friends, and all the growth that occurs for both youth, adults, and families, you know it is all worth it. Thank you for all you do as part of the Kansas 4-H Team to make the best better for Kansas youth!