The Benton County 4-H Ambassadors had a fun-filled day at their ambassador retreat. 

Friendships were formed and strengthened, plans were brainstormed and made, imaginations were stretched, and the ambassadors planned to “Get Focused” this year on what truly matters. 

“Each year, our Benton County Extension Educator does an amazing job choosing topics and materials for our 4-H Ambassador retreats around positive mental health,” said 4-H Ambassador Volunteers Advisor Amy Kleine of Sauk Rapids. “4-H youth and adult leaders walk away encouraged with so much positive information.” 

The theme “Get Focused” this year specifically identifies how stimulated one’s brains are throughout every day with all of the devices and electronics surrounding all. 

“The youth learned how much our brain craves distractions, so it is even harder to focus,” said Kleine. “The 4-H ambassadors spent the day learning about focusing, planning for upcoming events, building relationships, and taking time to express themselves by painting.”

“The ambassador retreat is beneficial in helping us prepare for all of the exciting events we are planning for this year,” said 4-H Ambassador Claudia Schlough, 9th grader from St. Cloud. “The retreat helped me learn how to stay focused longer and more effectively on my day-to-day responsibilities.” 

“So many of us need to learn how to focus better and need help with planning all the things we need to do.” Said 4-H Ambassador Allie Barringer, 11th grader from Becker. “The 4-H ambassador retreat is an important day for me to get to know the other ambassadors a little better and simply enjoy being together.”

After all the hard work making plans for the year and eating homemade pizzas, it was time for self-expression. Kleine led all ambassadors in a canvas painting. This was a great opportunity for the youth to enjoy and be creative. 

“I enjoy seeing these youths surprise themselves and grow with pride when we invite them to participate in a creative project like a 16x20 painting.” said Kleine. “They usually find a sense of growth and pride as they accomplish the subject and tackle the medium. Being a part of 4-H as a leader is amazing.”

One of the exciting events the 4-H Ambassadors are planning is a youth lock-in Fri., March 8 at Foley Intermediate School from 3-8 p.m. for youth in grades 3-8. It will be filled with fun interactive activities with the theme Get Focused. 

They will also have a motivational speaker, Aaron Cross with Motivation on Wheels, in attendance. 

“I am excited that we are having Aaron speak at the lock-in, he is a good speaker and very empowering,” said 4-H Ambassador Claudia Schlough. “He rose up from an extreme hardship in his life and hearing his story is an amazing experience.” 

Contact the Benton County Extension Office to learn more and register your children for the youth lock-in at 320.968.5077.