Tennessee 4-H Teen Leaders Show the Best of Youth Leadership

When many people think of 4-H, they may picture raising chickens, poster contests and public speaking. However, those activities are only the beginning of what 4-H offers young people across Tennessee.

Throughout the summer, some of the best examples of Tennessee 4-H youth leadership development have been on display at 4-H camps across the state, including Camp Lone Oaks in Middleton, Camp Ridley in Columbia, Camp Clyde M. York in Crossville and Camp Clyde Austin in Greeneville, Tenn.

Across the Volunteer State, hundreds of teenagers have volunteered thousands of combined hours to serve as teen leaders. These young people act much like big brothers and big sisters for thousands of junior 4-H campers as they learn, grow and experience the excitement of 4-H camp.

Teen leaders play a critical role in helping create a successful, safe and enjoyable camp experience. They take on leadership responsibilities, assist county 4-H agents and camp staff, help ensure cabins are cleaned each morning, comfort campers who may be homesick and encourage younger campers to step outside their comfort zones and try new things.

Tennessee 4-H is blessed with an outstanding group of teen leaders. These are the same teenagers who attend our local high schools, play sports, participate in our churches, work their first jobs and serve in communities across the state; teens such as Trevor Davis from Huntingdon High School, Hunter Malm from West Carroll Jr./Sr. High and Allie Paschall, Asa Gonzales, Gavin Case and Cadence Guinn from Hollow Rock-Bruceton Central High School.

While many teens spend the summer planning beach trips or checking items off their summer bucket lists, these young people are choosing to give back. By pledging their heads, hearts, hands and health, they help ensure that every junior 4-H camper has the opportunity to enjoy a meaningful and memorable summer camp experience.

It is easy in today’s world to be critical of young people. However, after seeing the dedication, maturity and compassion of Tennessee 4-H teen leaders, it is clear that the future of the Volunteer State is in good hands.

These teen leaders will one day become our next generation of teachers, doctors, farmers, engineers, military members, policymakers and community leaders. More importantly, they are already demonstrating the character, service and leadership needed to make a positive difference.

For more information about how to become a teen leader with UT/TSU Extension 4-H, please contact your local county Extension agent.