PUYALLUP, Wash – Over two-hundred fifty 4-H volunteers, teens and staff will gather October 17 – 19 to take part in The Forum in Everett. This year’s event, called “Rise above the Ordinary,” is filled with seminars where 4-H volunteers hone their skills in a wide variety of areas. Learning the latest technology, supporting military children and their families and enhancing teen leadership opportunities will be just a few of the seminars volunteers can attend.
“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.
On Saturday Sea-Tech 4-H Club will demonstrate its underwater robotics project. Youth- built submersible remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) will perform underwater science activities. Recently the group competed in the 2008 Maritime Advanced Technology Education International ROV Challenge at Scripps Institute in San Diego where they placed 10th out of 34 from universities and organizations around the world. The demonstration will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. in the pool at the Holiday Inn in Everett.
Keynote speakers include Snohomish County Judge Eric Lucas who will be examining the need for youth programs for kids who have come through hardships and are looking to succeed. He will address the group Saturday at 8 a.m.
On Sunday at 9 a.m. Snohomish County 4-H alumni Carley Simpson will be the capstone speaker. Simpson began 4-H at the age of ten and now works at a New York production company where she hosts televised sports reports and special events including the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
This year the Monsanto Company is supporting the Forum with a gift of $2,000. As a firm focused on agriculture, Monsanto is eager to support hands-on learning and training experiences for 4-H volunteers who provide innovating educational experiences to local youth.
All events will take place at the Holiday Inn in Everett.
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