PULLMAN, Wash. — Over 350 4-H volunteers, teens and staff will gather in Spokane Oct. 15 – 17 to take part in the first-ever Washington and Idaho Leaders Forum. This year’s “4-H Bridging Borders” event is filled with seminars for 4-H volunteers to hone their skills in a wide variety of areas including the latest technology, supporting military children and their families, and enhancing teen leadership opportunities.
“The Forum is an opportunity for us to recognize the many accomplishments of our 4-H volunteers who are dedicated to helping youth succeed,” explained Pat BoyEs Washington State University Extension 4-H Youth Development Director. “4-H volunteer leaders devote many hours each week to help youth learn life skills and knowledge that will contribute to them being productive, caring and confident citizens both today and in the future,” added BoyEs.
Featured speakers and entertainers include Spokane actor Tim Behrens performing his one-man comedy show featuring the works of acclaimed humorist and writer Patrick McManus on Oct. 15 at 8 p.m. Keynote speaker Kirk Astroth, director of Arizona 4-H Youth Development, will discuss how 4-H clubs can thrive in today’s changing environment on Oct. 16 at 8 a.m. And, at 9 a.m. on Oct. 17, 99.5 Bull County DJ Bre Earl will share how her 4-H experience impacted her life both personally and professionally.
A 4-H alumni reception will honor past 4-H’ers at 4:45 on Saturday. Anyone who has been involved in 4-H in Washington or Idaho is invited to attend.
The Monsanto Company is supporting the Forum with a gift of $4,000. The agricultural firm, a long-time 4-H sponsor, supports hands-on learning and training for 4-H volunteers who provide innovating educational experiences for local youth.
All events will be held at the Mirabeau Park Hotel and Convention Center in Spokane Valley. For more information go to: http://4h.wsu.edu/2010LeadersForum/index.html.
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