Warren County 4-H members lead fall break project day during National 4-H Week

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Warren County 4-H members spent part of their fall break learning new skills and helping younger students during a project day held as part of National 4-H Week.

The event at the Warren County Extension Office featured 4-H members leading workshops in areas including horticulture, cooking, watercolor, crocheting and other projects.

Akai Riley, a fifth-grade 4-H member who has been involved for five years, said 4-H has taught her leadership, teamwork and how to learn from setbacks.

“The biggest thing 4-H has taught me is how to lose correctly,” Riley said. “And in the losing moments, I can always reflect on how I can do better the next time.”

Grace Brown, a fourth-grade 4-H member who has been involved since she was 5, said the program has given her opportunities to make new friends and become more comfortable as a leader.

Warren County 4-H youth development agent Julie Brown said the project day was designed to give children a chance to explore the variety of opportunities available through 4-H.

“We cover lots of different interests,” Brown said, pointing to programs ranging from livestock and sewing to cooking, small engines, coding, art and crafts.

Brown said she has seen 4-H members’ confidence grow throughout her 21 years as a Warren County 4-H agent. Some young people who once struggled to speak up have eventually returned to teach others, she said.

National 4-H Week highlights the program’s work to develop leadership, citizenship and service skills among young people.

Brown said families interested in 4-H should consider their child’s interests and find a program that fits them.

“Find what your child, the spark that your child is interested in,” Brown said. “And with that we can find a spot for them.”