Louisiana State 4-H Citizenship Board

The Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) is now accepting applications for membership from high school students who have an interest in representing the voices of other young people around the state. LYAC is an annually appointed body composed entirely of students that tackle issues affecting the youth of Louisiana.

The purpose of LYAC is to facilitate the communication between youth and the legislature, and to give students a unique opportunity to be involved in the workings of state government. The council studies and addresses a variety of issues of importance to young people such as education, mental health, civic engagement, the environment, and school safety.

Members of the council are selected from a wide pool of statewide applicants who display a strong interest in civic involvement. The thirty-one-member council includes three students representing each of the six congressional districts and the remaining members serve at large. Applicants must be between the ages of fourteen and nineteen and enrolled in a public or private high school, charter school, home school, or GED skills program during the 2022-2023 school year.

The deadline to apply is March 25, 2022. The application may be accessed at civiced.louisiana.gov and then by clicking on LYAC at the top of the page. All applicants are required to submit two recommendation letters in addition to the eight short essay questions and application form. For additional information, please contact Megan Bella at [email protected] or 225-342-2370.

The Louisiana 4-H Citizenship Board would like to thank everyone who submitted art for the Art Contest. We are pleased to announce our 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners.

1st Place: Sawyer Herring, 9th Grade - Livingston Parish 4-H
2nd Place: Kyra Cedars, 12th Grade - Sabine Parish
3rd Place: Emma Gaudet, 11th Grade - Livingston Parish 4-H

Be sure to check out the captions of each picture to read what the art piece means to them and how it exemplifies Mental Health. Again THANK YOU to all 4-H'ers who participated.

Take a break from the hustle & bustle of life and embark on an expedition into your own mind to discover the mysteries that await in the jungle of emotions. Journey through the valleys and mountains of feelings- the highs of joy, the lows of sadness, the raging rivers of anger, and much more. You'll experience it all in the Louisiana 4-H Mental Health Retreat sponsored by the State 4-H Citizenship Board. There is a $10 registration fee and fees must be submitted in advance to complete registration. The registration deadline is March 1, 2022.

This workshop opportunity is available for 4-H members 5th-8th grade. Registration will be granted on a first come first serve basis, so don’t wait!! Register now! https://fs10.formsite.com/lsuagcenter/rd34s1brqu/index.html

A noble American leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a revolutionary figure in America. His nurturing, care and peace loving attitude led him to give speeches across the country. He fought with peace for freedom and rights for African Americans who were treated poorly throughout the southern states. Some of these famous speeches are I Have a Dream, Our God is Marching On, and A Time to Break the Silence.

We hope everyone's holiday season is one filled with laughter and memories. We'd like to remind you that the 4-H Art Contest submissions are due next Monday, January 3, 2022! 2D or 3D artwork is acceptable and all submitted artwork must have a short summary of what the piece of art means to the 4-H'er and how it exemplifies mental health. Send all submissions to Mrs. Kim Deville at [email protected]. For more information you can visit https://www.lsuagcenter.com/articles/page1638239859162

In honor of the Louisiana 4-H Day of Service, we will be hosting an Art Contest open to all 4-H members across the state. The theme for this contest is "Mental Health".

Studies show when youth learn to appreciate and create art — whether it’s painting, dancing, rapping, or acting — they develop skills such as empathy, self-awareness, and self-management, which in turn fosters mental wellness.

2D or 3D artwork is acceptable and all submitted artwork must have a short summary of what the piece of artwork means to the 4-H'er and how it exemplifies mental health. The deadline to submit your art is Saturday, Jan. 3, 2022, to Mrs. Kim Deville at [email protected].

To view the rubric and acceptable forms of artwork visit https://www.lsuagcenter.com/articles/page1638239859162

From the Louisiana State 4-H Citizenship Board to you when your family; we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!

During the month of November, citizens head to the polls to cast their votes on elected officials on the local, state, and federal level, along with voting yay or nay on state constitutional amendments, local laws, or federal laws. Voting has not always been a right for some citizens, therefore the Louisiana State 4-H Citizenship Board would like to share knowledge on the history of voting in the United States.

Congratulations, Laila!!

At tonight’s city council meeting, Mayor Ken Ritter and the Youngsville City Council recognized Laila Horton, Sophomore at Southside HIgh School for her extensive accomplishments.

Meet Laila Horton

Horton is a sophomore at Southside High School in Lafayette Parish. Currently the President of her club, Horton has been in 4-H for seven years. She is also a program leader in her parish. To Horton, "My favorite part about 4-H is all the people I have met and the things I have learned. Honestly, I do not know what my life would be like without 4-H. At first, I joined because of the cooking contests but, then I realized how much more there actually was to 4-H, I got into livestock for a few years, and now this is my first year on the Louisiana state Citizenship board. It took a lot to get here but, I am so glad I put in the extra effort! 4-H is something that I love and have a passion for which is why I continue joining." Outside of 4-H, Horton enjoys theatrical arts and playing tennis and the flute. Upon graduation, Horton plants to attend college eventually becoming an architect.

Congratulations Laila! We are so proud of you!

Today at 11:00pm is the deadline to support the State 4-H Citizenship in our Double Good Fundraiser!

What's Poppin'? It's Double Good Popcorn! The Louisiana 4-H Citizenship Board Double Good Popcorn store is now open for sales. The deadline to place your order is TUESDAY, NOV. 9 by 11pm. You can contact a Citizenship Board member or order at https://popup.doublegood.com/s/ns057eb5.

Today begins our last week meeting board members!

Meet Laila Horton

Horton is a sophomore at Southside High School in Lafayette Parish. Currently the President of her club, Horton has been in 4-H for seven years. She is also a program leader in her parish. To Horton, "My favorite part about 4-H is all the people I have met and the things I have learned. Honestly, I do not know what my life would be like without 4-H. At first, I joined because of the cooking contests but, then I realized how much more there actually was to 4-H, I got into livestock for a few years, and now this is my first year on the Louisiana state Citizenship board. It took a lot to get here but, I am so glad I put in the extra effort! 4-H is something that I love and have a passion for which is why I continue joining." Outside of 4-H, Horton enjoys theatrical arts and playing tennis and the flute. Upon graduation, Horton plants to attend college eventually becoming an architect.

Welcome to the board, Laila!

What's Poppin'? It's Double Good Popcorn! The Louisiana 4-H Citizenship Board Double Good Popcorn store is now open for sales. The deadline to place your order is TUESDAY, NOV. 9 by 11pm. You can contact a Citizenship Board member or order at https://popup.doublegood.com/s/ns057eb5.

Meet Olivia Bush, a 10th grader from Winnfield Senior High School in Winn Parish. Busha has been an active 4-H member for eight years, currently serving as Reporter for her local 4-H Junior Leadership Club. Although Busha "joined 4-H just to have something to do," she states that she has "fallen in love with it over the years." For the past three years, Busha has competed in "Consumer and Decision Making" as well as "Poultry" categories at 4-H University. Outside of 4-H, Busha is a member of her local FFA chapter, Anchor Club, FBLA, and FCS Club. She also serves as the Co-Captain of Winnfield Senior High School's pom line. Busha enjoys watching Marvel movies, reading her Bible, crafting, and spreading positivity throughout her community. Upon graduation, Busha hopes to attend LSU and become a 4-H agent, inspiring the next generation of 4-H.

Welcome to the board, Olivia!

It's now easier to send Louisiana State 4-H Citizenship Board a message.

Although we had a break, we are back welcoming our 2021 Louisiana State 4-H Citizenship Board members!

Meet Mikayla Barletto, a 9th grader from Iberia Parish currently enrolled at Divine Mercy Academy. Barletto is a six-year member of 4-H, in which she has served as her club's Treasurer for one year and President for two years. Barletto has served as the Iberia Parish Junior Leadership Club Secretary for two years. Barletto's 4-H history falls nothing short of exemplary, as she was awarded as her parish's Outstanding 8th Grader Award in addition to the Golden Clover Award. Numerous blue ribbons have been awarded to Barletto for her outstanding efforts in a vast number of shows and contests throughout the parish and state. Barletto describes herself as a very determined person, with the help of 4-H, "Once I set my mind to something, and I am utmost certain it is what I want, I go after it. 4-H has really helped me find a sense of what it is that I truly want." Additionally, Barletto has been an avid volleyball player from a very young age, achieving a 1st place status last year and being named to All-Star teams. Barletto shows heavy interest in physical health and would like to pursue a related career in the future, aspiring to own her own gym chain throughout the country.

Welcome and thank you for sharing your talents with us, Mikayla!

For the last week of we would like to recognize a few influential Hispanic figures. Name an influential Hispanic figure and what they mean to you. Comment your answers down below.

On we would like to remind you that your mental health is a priority. Your happiness is essential. Your self-care is a necessity.

In continuing to celebrate by showcasing how the Latinx/Hispanic community has influence the language and food here in the United States. What are some other ways has the Hispanic culture influenced your life? Comment your answers down below.

The Louisiana State 4-H Citizenship Board would like to take the time out to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. This month takes place September 15 to October 15 every year as a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Latino community. Have you ever celebrated National Hispanic Heritage Month? If so, how? Comment your answers down below.

Meet Jewel Bird, an 11th grader from Parkway High School in Bossier Parish. Jewel is currently serving as the Civic Engagement Chair for the Louisiana State 4-H Citizenship Board. Jewel was attracted to 4-H because of its community service aspect. Soon after, she learned of its wide range of activities. Jewel likes that 4-H can be whatever you want it to be and loves that anyone can be a part of 4-H. "It doesn’t matter if it’s your first or ninth year in 4-H, you're able to do as much as possible and you're welcomed with open arms." Jewel says this is why she will continue to join 4-H and hopes that others will do the same. Outside of 4-H, Jewel enjoys volunteering and being involved in her community. Jewel started the first environmental club at her school, Alliance For Sustainability, which aims to increase climate awareness within the student body while making sustainable changes in her school. Besides AFS she is in many other school clubs such as Student Council, Red Jackets, National Honor Society, Beta, Tennis, Kpaw, Mu Alpha Theta. In addition, Jewel is involved with many community involvement organizations such as Volunteers of North America Louisiana and Bossier Youth Leadership. In her free time, Jewel enjoys watching Netflix and the news, cooking, baking, and spending time with friends and family. This year, Jewel was selected as an HOBY Ambassador by Parkway High School's faculty. Jewel was also awarded the AP Scholar Award by the College Board. Upon graduating, Jewel aspires to become a public interest attorney.

Welcome to the board, Jewel!

Meet Chloe Martin, an 11th grader from Berwick High School in St. Mary Parish. Martin has been in 4-H for eight years in addition to serving as a St. Mary Parish 4-H Junior Leader for five years, where she has served the office of Reporter and is currently serving as Vice President. When asked, Martin said that she enjoys 4-H because it allows younger people a chance to explore leadership, meet new people, and discover new interests and knowledge, "It truly is a club that has something for everyone and doesn't limit itself to one thing. 4-H has a plethora of different opportunities, positions, and experiences to offer. It's all-around a great club full of great people!" Martin is involved in many organizations including Senior Beta, Book Club, Future Business Leaders of America, and ARK in addition to student council and clubs such as the Key Club, Art Club, Debate Club, and Yearbook Club. In her free time, Martin enjoys reading, drawing, and spending time with friends and family. Upon graduation, Martin plans to pursue a degree in architecture.

Welcome to the board, Chloe!

Today we celebrate the lives lost on the 20th anniversary of 9/11. We will never forget it. To learn more about today and events surrounding it visit:
National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial - https://pentagonmemorial.org/?fbclid=IwAR07Aoy4NikTK8t3qPj9ZadAG6sF1gK5er3yJAsNjxc8eNKWYYBWrQyq7-o
National September 11 Memorial & Museum - https://www.911memorial.org/20th-anniversary

As we get into our school year, we will begin to introduce a board member each day for the remainder of the month!

Meet Kristen Richard, a 12th grader from Central Lafourche High School in Lafourche Parish. Kristen has been heavily involved in 4-H for nine years and has been an active member in the Lafourche Parish 4-H Junior Leader Club for six years. Inspired to join 4-H by her mother's 4-H career, she was excited to learn many new skills alongside her friends. Involvement in 4-H introduced and greatly developed Kristen’s love of public speaking; she enjoys meeting new people and communicating her passions to them through the skills she grew in 4-H. After substantial amounts of research and preparation, over the span of two years, Kristen placed first at the state level for the Senior High Chicken, Turkey, and Egg Illustrated Talk Competitions. In her spare time, Kristen enjoys singing, dancing, creative writing, reading, spending time with her family, volunteering in her community, and traveling to fairs and festivals throughout Louisiana promoting the Gheens Bon Mange’ Festival as its 32nd Teen Queen. Additionally, Kristen is a member of her school’s QuizBowl team, Choir Council, Performing Arts Club, BETA Club Historian, and Student Council Vice President. This year in 4-H, Kristen was awarded the Lafourche Parish 4-H Hall of Fame Award and the State Golden Clover award, both for her leadership, service, and growth within the organization. Following her high school graduation, Kristen plans to study medicine and pursue a career in Pediatrics.

Welcome to the board, Kristen!

Today is ***dePreventionDay! We ask tonight at 8:00 p.m. you light a candle to show your support for su***de prevention to remember a lost loved one and for the survivors of su***de. Together, we can ***de

Help teen su***de and depression. According to the CDC, su***de ranks in the top 3 leading causes of death among teens. Our children are our future so lets listen to them when they show us the signs as we together, can help ***de

Ask! Research shows people who are having thoughts of su***de feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about su***de may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.

National Su***de Prevention Week is an annual campaign that takes places Sept. 5 - Sept. 11 to educate and inform the public about su***de prevention and the warning signs of su***de and also aims to reduce the stigma surrounding su***de and encourages others to seek mental health assistance because going to therapy should be as normalized as going to the gym. Pay attention to your loved ones' speak, mood and behavior. Together, we can help ***de

The Citizenship Board Civic Engagement Committee has been hard at work creating meaningful opportunities for youth across the state to engage with. We are please to announce the “Your Voice Matters Journal”! This journal will allow youth to voice their feelings when needed and assist them with their mental health. If you’d like to get a copy of the journal contact your Parish 4-H Agent.

The Southwest Region held their 4-H Volunteer and Leadership Conference and Citizenship Board members, Chloe Martin, Isaac Temple and Malory Segura presenting Bee the Change which highlighted what service-learning is and the state service-learning focus, Mental Health. Thank you board members and Mrs. Megan Franks for presenting a wonderful session.

One of the objective of the State 4-H Citizenship Board is to assist with the development of educational programs that provide opportunities for exploring citizenship and cultural awareness on the local, state and national level. During the We Lead Conference board members heard from Louisiana Spirit Crisis Counseling Program and Central Louisiana Human Services District as they shared valuable resources and educated the board on this years statewide service-learning focus, Mental Health. Be on the lookout in the coming weeks of a resource that you can use in your parish programs.

The 2021-2022 Louisiana 4-H Citizenship Board convened for the first time this week and participated in workshop aimed to strength their leadership, communication and advocacy skills. While also participating in workshops, they conducted business meetings to plan out the year to get the word out about Louisiana 4-H and the citizenship focus area. We are looking forward to a productive year with these amazing .

Join us in congratulating these 21 , who represent 14 parishes, on being named a part of the 2021-2022 Louisiana 4-H State Citizenship Board. We look forward to having a productive and fun year expanding our knowledge and making a difference.

Louisiana 4-H members, volunteers, alumni, professionals and friends, donate change to make a change across the state. The Louisiana 4-H Citizenship Board is pleased to announce the 2021 Change for a Change Drive is now open and will conclude on June 29. The region who has the highest amount of donations will win the trophy and proceeds will be donated to a Special Needs Awareness Organization in that region. Don't wait donate today!

To donate visit: https://louisiana4hfoundation.square.site/change-for-change-fundraiser