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4-H youths collectively determining what a good 4-H member looks like, including items to bring to a meeting, what to prepare before a meeting and how to succeed as a club member. -
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Wyatt Covey, northwest regional representative on the Missouri 4-H State Council, led youths in engaging learning activities around leadership in 4-H at a training for youth officers. -
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Morgan Nelson, member of the 4-H State Council board of directors, led youths in engaging learning activities around leadership in 4-H at a training for youth officers.
More than 50 4-H youth club officers from Caldwell Lafayette and Ray counties dove into a lively leadership workshop that blended learning with plenty of fun on Nov. 16. The training was led by youth program associates, 4-H specialists and 4-H volunteers, along with special guests Wyatt Covey, Lawson 4-H Club in Ray County, who serves as the northwest regional representative on the State Council, and Morgan Nelson, Walkenezer 4-H Club in Lafayette County, who serves on the State Council board of directors. During the event, youth engaged with several hands-on activities, including “What Makes a Good Club Officer,” “Motion Potion – A Parliamentary Procedure Activity” and a full mock meeting to practice real meeting responsibilities.
Youth left the event with a wide range of new knowledge. When asked to share “One new thing I learned,” participants highlighted gaining a clearer understanding of parliamentary procedure, from how to correctly amend or make a motion to when different gavel strikes are used. Others noted that the training helped them better understand their officer responsibilities and how different roles work together to keep meetings organized and welcoming – for 4-H, county fairs, and other organizations. These takeaways reflect the broader goal of the workshop: building practical leadership skills that help youth communicate effectively, making informed decisions and contributing confidently to their clubs.
A memorable moment came during the Motion Potion activity when “canned chicken” was proposed as an ingredient to the group’s trail mix. Although the action was motioned and seconded, youth ultimately voted it down, which offered a valuable lesson that not all motions should pass simply because they are introduced. The discussion reinforced critical thinking, respectful disagreement and confidence in voting authentically.
Beyond officer roles, the training strengthened key life skills such as communication, teamwork, responsibility and decision-making. These skills help 4-H youth grow into thoughtful, capable leaders ready to contribute to their clubs and communities.