Empowering Youth: Douglas County 4-H's Transformative Public Speaking Journey

In the heart of Douglas County, the 4-H program is making a profound impact on the lives of young individuals, equipping them with the invaluable skill of public speaking. This transformative experience not only serves members for a lifetime but also showcases the depth of talent and dedication within the local 4-H community.

Unlocking Confidence and Communication Excellence

Mastering the Art of Food Revue

The Douglas County 4-H members, spanning all age groups, recently put their public speaking prowess to the test during the annual Food Revue event held at the Douglas County Courthouse. This competition challenges participants to design a complete menu, create a complementary themed place setting with a centerpiece, and present one food item from the menu. Judges evaluate the youth's knowledge of food, management, nutrition, costs, meal planning, and overall appearance and design.Aleyna Taveirne of the Lake Mary Troopers 4-H club emerged as the grand champion for her pesto chicken bake dinner, complete with an outdoor patio-themed presentation. This achievement not only showcases Aleyna's culinary expertise but also her ability to effectively communicate her vision and knowledge to the judges.

Demonstrating Mastery and Inspiring Others

Demonstrations are another integral component of the 4-H program, allowing members to share their knowledge and skills with their peers. This teaching method involves both visual and verbal presentations, providing a powerful platform for youth to develop their communication abilities.The 4-H members in grades 3-5 showcased their demonstration prowess. Kate Nelson of the Lake Mary Troopers received reserve champion for her demonstration on marble art, while Elim Loween, also from the Lake Mary Troopers, was awarded the grand champion title for her demonstration on how to make a lava lamp.The older 4-H members, in grades 6 and up, also took the stage to share their expertise. Lydia Mason of the Fancy Farmers 4-H club received the grand champion award for her demonstration on "How to Turn Your Brownies into Bucks," while Jayne Nelson of the Lake Mary Troopers was awarded the reserve champion title for her demonstration on cherry scones.The afternoon also featured a team demonstration, with Cora Bumgarner, Carson Bumgarner, Liesel Bumgarner, and Rylee Bundermann from the Liberty Livewires and Lake Mary Troopers 4-H clubs collaborating to showcase their collective skills.

Inspiring the Next Generation at the Douglas County Fair

The 4-H Exhibit Building at the upcoming Douglas County Fair will be a hub of activity, showcasing the live demonstrations and the food revue exhibits that the 4-H members have been diligently working on. This event provides an opportunity for the community to witness the exceptional talents and dedication of these young individuals, inspiring the next generation of 4-H leaders.The Douglas County 4-H program's commitment to developing public speaking skills is a testament to its unwavering dedication to empowering youth. Through the Food Revue and Demonstration competitions, these young individuals are not only honing their communication abilities but also gaining invaluable life skills that will serve them well beyond their 4-H experiences.