By Tobie Blanchard
LSU AgCenter
Exactly one year after COVID-19 shut down much of the state, Louisiana 4-H’ers gathered for one of three Junior Leadership Conferences. For many participants, it was their first face-to-face 4-H event in a year.
“This was a big deal because this is the first time I got to go outside of my parish and socialize and meet new people,” said Cameron Fuselier, a sophomore from Acadia Parish, adding that the conference “has as exceeded my expectations because even with COVID restrictions, they have found ways to make it engaging.”
The daylong conferences were planned and conducted by the State 4-H Executive Board. The events were held in Bossier City on March 11, Alexandria on March 12 and Baton Rouge on March 13 to allow for limited capacity at each site while reaching as many 4-H’ers as possible.
Karen Martin, LSU AgCenter 4-H regional coordinator, said she saw a high level of enthusiasm from the 4-H’ers participating in the conferences.
“The kids are so appreciative to be able to go somewhere, see each other and do something,” Martin said.