By Becky Zadunayski
For the News
Inspired by Paul Brandt’s latest hit “Risk” 4-H delegates attending the 2008 edition of Club Week were encouraged, inspired and motivated to triumph through the hard things in life, as apposed to sitting idly by while life passes. Being that the theme for the week was ‘the fire within.’ Just over 100 delegates focused on self exploration in an attempt to better understand what fuels their own individual fires.
Besides self development, areas of focus over the week included topics ranging from friendship and trust to overcoming adversity. Encouraged to identify and vocalize their opinions, feelings and positions delegates were given opportunities for discussion and reflection within their small groups.
In its 67th year of operation, Club Week’s programming has been fine tuned, and well refined to give senior 4-H members an experience to remember. Delegates leave Club Week more enlightened, aware and confident than when they arrived. By giving delegates the opportunity for self development. This can often be a life changing experience, or provide a catalyst for many members to help them attain life goals. “The thing that sets this program apart from others is the real life discussions and time for self development and reflection.” Comments Kennan Hedley of Neutral Hills Rodeo Wranglers, “Our small group sessions allow us to develop stronger connections as well as learn what it takes to develop trust, and healthy relationships.”
Complementing the small group sessions, are the guest speakers, presentations and forums that are organized for Club Week-ers. The Overcoming and Celebrating Adversity session brought forth four speakers, whose stories all focused on their own ‘fire within’ and how they used this energy to overcome life’s hardships.
“This is a great program that really focuses on intensive personal development and offers opportunities for both delegates and staff to stretch the parameters of their thinking as they contemplate issues of importance to the future leaders of our communities and our nation.” Kendall Olson UFA representative and volunteer facilitator remarked about the program. “I learned as much from the discussions as I believe the delegates did!”
Interjected through out the week were events that allowed members to unwind, mingle and make lasting friendships. The Masquerade dance, Mini- Olympics and Wild Wild West barbecue are just a few of the events that provided delegates ample opportunity to laugh and enjoy what the program had to offer.
“At the end of the program I hope the delegates walk away enlightened and enriched with the true sense of their own personal fire, that they share this newly acknowledged fire with others as well as seek out and help others to recognize the fire within themselves.” Commented Allison Gardner 4-H Summer Staff, and program organizer.
For more information on Alberta 4-H summer programs, please contact Programs Specialist Mark Shand at 403-948-8508. For inquiries regarding the 4-H program please visit the 4-H website at www.4h.ab.ca.