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Each Spring, 4-H club members in counties across New Jersey have an opportunity to practice their public speaking skills at annual 4-H Public Presentation events. This year, Mercer County had many eager participants with interesting and inspiring topics!
The life skill of effectively communicating thoughts and ideas publicly is one of the principal objectives of the 4-H program. Putting together a 4-H public presentation enhances competencies like planning, delivering ideas, and even leadership abilities like taking initiative, organizing ideas, and motivating others.
Part of the 4-H participant’s experience in the event is to actively accept constructive feedback from volunteer judges. The judges have been instructed to formulate comments that will help improve future presentations and grow the confidence of each youth participant.
Community service that touches the heart of others is another equally important part of the 4-H program. At this year’s Public Presentation night, Mercer County 4-H Ambassador, Abigail Cappiello, organized a community service project asking participants to bring new and gently used arts and craft supplies to donate to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia “CHOP.” Abby has a personal connection to CHOP as her cousin was born prematurely and lived at CHOP for nine months. Abby commented, “when kids are in for extended stays they use these arts and craft supplies to keep them busy and make them happy. Sometimes little and simple things can go a long way to bring a smile to someone’s face.”
If you or someone you know may be interested in learning more about the 4-H program, or serving as a volunteer judge and supporting young people, please contact me at bejgrowicz@njaes.rutgers.edu.