Overview
Recently I [Matt] had a chance to interview 4-H youth member Eva who is also this year's 4-H club president for Franklin in Sutter County. The following are Eva's responses to my questions.
About Eva
[Matt] What is your current role in the 4-H program? Describe your involvement and any leadership responsibilities you have.
[Eva] My current role in 4-H is twofold. This is my second year as a Sutter-Yuba 4-H County Ambassador, and I am also president of Franklin 4-H. Over the last several years I have held many leadership roles from teen leader for my sheep group, all the offices at the chapter level, and County 4-H ambassador. I also have participated in many projects: cooking, leadership, sheep, chickens, dogs, arts and crafts and more.
About Eva's Spark
[Matt] What is your “spark”?
[Eva] I would say that my spark is Leadership. Not only do I really enjoy and thrive on my leadership roles within 4-H, I also participate in and am on the leadership team in FFA. I like teaching and helping others through my leadership roles by mentoring younger members and representing 4-H in a positive light for all who are interested in joining 4-H.
Eva's 4-H Accomplishments
[Matt] As a 4-H'er, what are some of your proudest accomplishments?
[Eva] Some of my proudest moments are running well-organized chapter meetings since I am very interested in public policy and look forward to collaboration at our chapter. Through these meetings, I have learned to be a confident public speaker and proper parliamentary procedure. Another proud moment was showing my lamb at fair this last year, since I made it into to final market selection and I won showmanship. The reason this is a proud moment is that I work very hard to care for my animals throughout the year and the hard work pays off with my presentation of the animal and selection of the judge. I am extremely proud of showmanship since this is how I represent myself with my animal.
Looking to the Future
[Matt] Where do you see yourself in the next three years?
[Eva] Since I am currently a Junior in high school, in three years I plan to be in college, but I will stay in 4-H until that time comes. I plan to maintain my leadership activities over the next few years at the chapter level and county level.
This was a picture of Eva and her brother in 2023. It was her brother's last year showing. They started in 4-H and have been showing together for 10 years.
Advice for 4-H Members
[Matt] What advice would you give other 4-H youth members?
[Eva] My advice for younger members would be to try new things and get involved. I have grown so much by taking on leadership roles. I highly recommend all members to become officers at the chapter level and get involved in the community. I have been able to give back to the community through the many projects we have worked on. I really enjoyed educating and asking for support from the community at the Tractor Supply Paper Clover campaign, this event not only helps 4-H locally but also helps the community understand what 4-H does.
Impact of 4-H Volunteers on Eva's Life
[Matt] What impact have 4-H volunteers made in your life?
[Eva] The 4-H volunteers have paved the way for my success. They have shown me what it means to volunteer and give back to the youth in the community. Both my mom and grandma are project leaders for our chapter. In my opinion, 4-H has legacy involvement. The women in my family have been leaders in 4-H for four generations and show the youth how they can have an impact on future generations.
About the 4-H Program
To learn more about the 4-H program in Sutter-Yuba, please check out our website.