Maine 4-H’ers Trip to National 4-H Congress

January 30, 2026 News

Emily Bishop, 4-H Community Education Assistant for Penobscot County, shares her experience:Four 4-H youth stand with a large sign that says Welcome 4-H National Congress

Each fall, teens from across the country get selected as state delegates to gather in Atlanta, Georgia, for National 4‑H Congress. This year, I had the privilege of chaperoning four Maine delegates, and I’d like to share what the experience was like for myself and our four Maine youth who attended.

What Makes National 4‑H Congress Special

Congress brings together hundreds of motivated teens for 5 days of leadership development, community service, cultural exploration, and connection‑building. It’s fast‑paced, energizing, and full of opportunities for youth to stretch themselves.

By the end of day one, two delegates reported:

  • “I loved getting to listen to the teen performances today. They picked great songs and are really talented.”
  • “Even though I am exhausted from traveling, I had an absolute blast!”

What Youth Experience During the TripThree youth raking leaves

Throughout the week, delegates participate in workshops, service projects, keynote sessions, and cultural events. Some of the highlights for our group included:

  • Hands‑on workshops, one of which was led by Georgia College and State University, where youth explored activities that depended on communication skills
  • Inspiring keynote speakers like Dr. Layman Hicks and John Beede
  • Community service project at Sandy Springs Parks
  • Cultural events: International Dinner, Atlanta History Center, and Gala
  • Opportunities to meet teens from across the country
  • Field trips to Truist Park, Georgia Aquarium, and Zoo Atlanta

One youth shared: “It was so nice to get outside today. Doing clean-up at the park made me feel like I was back home.”

Another said: “I got to talk to someone about lamb projects today! She gave me some ideas that I am going to take back to my club.”

What the Experience was Like for EmilyA large room full of youth sitting in chairs while a speaker stands with a screen that says Stay Motivated

As a chaperone, I had the joy of watching our delegates grow more confident each day. As they all opened up, I got to know them as individuals both within and outside of 4-H. As I encouraged them to take advantage of every opportunity, I got to see them as team players and leaders. By the end of the trip, we all gained some new close friends.

From my perspective: “There were some really great keynote speakers that I wish I had gotten to hear when I was a teenager. They were inspiring and motivational to all, young and old.”

Who Should Consider Applying

Congress is a great fit for youth who are:

  • Interested in leadership or service
  • Excited to meet new people
  • Ready for a structured, fast‑paced environment
  • Curious about new ideas and cultures
  • Looking to deepen their 4‑H involvement

One delegate put it simply: “As Dr. Hicks said, ‘Get off you but!’ The one with one t, not two.”

How Families Can PrepareYouth sitting on the floor with yoga mats

If your child is considering applying, it can help to:

  • Connect with 4-H staff and previous attendees
  • Review application materials together
  • Talk about goals and interests
  • Practice interview skills

Even the application process itself helps youth grow.

Final Thoughts

National 4‑H Congress is more than a trip; it’s an experience that stays with youth long after they return home. They come back inspired, connected, and ready to take on new challenges with a newfound “Courage to Grow and Heart to Serve”.

Group of youth and chaperones dressed up for the formal gala.