Eden Edenfield, Sarah Newsome represent Highland County, Ohio 4-H at Leadership Washington Focus

Courtesy of Kathy Bruynis

County Extension Director, 4-H Youth Development Educator 

Eden Edenfield and Sarah Newsome had the honor of representing Highland County and Ohio 4-H at Leadership Washington Focus, July 17-21.

Leadership Washington Focus is a 4-H leadership program for youth entering grade 7 through 9. The program took place at the National 4-H Center in Chevy Chase, Md., just outside Washington, D.C.

This middle school program is a fairly new program. However, the high school program, Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF) has been in existence for more than 50 years.

Thousands of youth from across Ohio have participated over the years in CWF, including myself. These programs are a great opportunity for 4-H youth to learn leadership skill including the following:

• Build confidence in their ability to motivate and direct others in meaningful action;

• Practice effective communication with others through group discussion and public speaking;

• Work with others to create and accomplish goals;

• Develop an understanding of their own personal leadership style;

• Exchange ideas, practice respect, and form friendships with other 4-H'ers from across the nation; and

• Experience hands-on learning using the historical backdrop of Washington, D.C.

If 4-H members are interested in this type of opportunity, please call the office at 937-393-1918 and we will give you the information on how to apply.