Overview
Recently I [Matt] had a chance to interview 4-H Miner's Ravine Club President Ava from Placer County. The prior week, I had met Ava at the Placer County Gold Country Fair while helping 4-H volunteers set up pig pens. The following are Ava's responses to my questions.
Vision for this coming year
[Matt] "As president of the Miners Ravine club, what is your vision for this upcoming year?"
[Ava] "My vision for this up coming year is to incorporate more volunteer opportunities and bring our community closer together. In a world of individuality, everyone has their own talents and strengths. I hope to use everyone in our club and bring out the happiness and joy in everyone. I also hope to help kids and adults find and share their passions in our club and in the world."
Discovery of your spark
[Matt] "What is your spark? And how did you discover it?"
[Ava] "Leadership is my spark. I love setting goals and achieving them. I love seeing not only my improvement but also the improvement of those around me. I also love seeing the work we do to better our community."
"I was never a super sporty kid so my 4-H club gave me something to do. I met some of my favorite people here. I learned so much about myself and the world. I have a second family in 4-H and found my passion and mentors here. I discovered my spark through searching, connecting, embracing, and through community. This 4-H organization, the people and opportunities it has for everyone, is truly a gift. 4-H is open to anyone from anywhere!"
Proudest accomplishments
[Matt] "What are some of your 4-H proudest accomplishments? Why?"
[Ava] "Some of my proudest 4-H accomplishments have been my 4-H Silver Star and the skills I have gained! This is due to the fact that I came into 4-H in third grade sacred, shy, and feeling like an out cast. As I journeyed through this life, I have gained communication skills, people skills, financial skills, marking skills, and life long friendships! I have learned how to work hard and go after what I want. I have put in lots of time and energy into getting my Sliver Star in 4-H."
Looking ahead
[Matt] "Where do you see yourself in the next three years?"
[Ava] "In the next three years, I see myself graduating Del Oro High School and going to Sierra College. I hope to help with fair planning and organizing. I want to become a veterinarian technician and a nurse (for people). I hope to come back to help and maybe even start a project as a project leader in 4-H."
Advice for new 4-H youth members
[Matt] "What advice would you give to new 4-H youth members?"
[Ava] "As a new 4-H member, don't be scared to ask questions. It's confusing, especially the record books, for not only kids but parents. Put yourself out there for the project reports. We want you to want to talk about what you learned! Share your ideas. Be creative. Find your passion! Share your passion! And live your passion!"
Impact of volunteers on your life
[Matt] "What impact have adult volunteers made in your life? Why?"
[Ava] "The volunteers in 4-H have impacted my life greatly. Most of them feel like second family to me. They are not only there for me in 4-H but in life. Supporting me in my good times and bad! [Volunteers] help me to find the joy in life and this organization!"