By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Effingham sends six 4-Hers to annual State Congress
0812 4H state congress 2
The Effingham County delegation attending the annual 4-H State Congress included Mallory Morgan, Logan McDonald, Alex Parrish, Rebecca Velasquez, and Rose Moss. - photo by Photo provided

Effingham County Extension office is beaming with pride to have sent six representatives to Georgia’s 73rd Annual 4-H State Congress, held in Atlanta from July 21-24 at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia.

4-H’ers from all over the state of Georgia gathered for the opportunity to compete at the State level.  After a first place achievement at State Congress, they are considered a “Master” 4-H’er. Mastering in a project area is the ultimate goal for all 4-H’ers participating in Project Achievement. Through project achievement, 4-H’ers gain public speaking skills, resume building skills and interview skills by presenting a portfolio of accomplishments and a demonstration based in their project area. 

The students previously competed in and won first place in regional competitions to earn the right to travel to Atlanta for the state competition. There, Georgia 4-H’ers competed in a variety of categories ranging from history to horses and performing arts to public speaking. Each student gave a 12-minute presentation before expert judges and prepared portfolios detailing their research, leadership and service projects.

Those in attendance from Effingham County 4-H were: 4-H Agent Abby Smith, Alex Parrish, placing third in the sports project, Logan McDonald in the history project, Mallory Morgan in the history project, Rebecca Velasquez, placing third in the public speaking project, Rose Moss in the sports project and Sophie Usher, state 4-H Scholarship recipient.

Effingham 4-H also is proud to recognize Usher, recent graduate of Effingham County High School and the daughter of Tim and Holly Usher, as a Double Master 4-H member. As the recipient of the 4-H Achievement Scholarship, Usher was recognized at the opening banquet of State 4-H Congress for her accomplishments.

4-H continues to prepare tomorrow’s workforce by assisting young people in developing self-confidence and gaining leadership skills that will enable them to become tomorrow’s leaders.