PHOTO PROVIDED Members of the Lycoming County 4-H Council.

County Council is a group of teens that meet monthly developing leadership and other essential life skills that will prepare them for their futures. County Council members meet monthly to set goals, plan and lead local events, promote and advocate for 4-H, and participate in conferences such as the PA State Leadership Conference.

According to a news release, each year, councils may apply for the statewide County Council award. This award was established to recognize outstanding achievements of PA 4-H teens who take part of their local County Council. Applications are always due October 1 and based on work completed from October 1, 2024-September 30, 2025. Teens should create goals based on planning local events, promoting and advocating 4-H, set goals for the year, provide educational and leadership opportunities, essential skill development workshops, or be involved in a teen leadership project. The top three County Council teams are then recognized at the PA State Leadership Conference.

For 2025, Lycoming County’s 4-H County Council established three club SMART goals. SMART goals are structured, actionable objectives that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time- bound.

The club’s first goal focused on learning and applying new leadership strategies by strengthening their leadership skills, the news release said. Members planned and hosted a sewing workshop titled Come Sew with County Council. Inspired by President Katie Shipton, who shared that her church was seeking handmade bags for emergency relief victims, the council transformed the workshop into a community service initiative. Members prepared materials, created promotional flyers, and coordinated scheduling with their educator. Participants learned sewing skills while contributing to a meaningful cause.

In addition, the council invited two guest speakers to present on Parliamentary Procedure and SMART goal setting. Members applied these concepts during meetings, increasing efficiency and strengthening their leadership practices, the news release said.

The second goal emphasized community engagement through service and outreach. The council completed two club-level and one county-wide service projects. According to the news release, members collected toys for the Toys for Tots program, donated trays of cookies to Tractor Supply Company stores in Muncy and Milton in appreciation for their support of the Paper Clover Campaign and created Valentine’s cards for residents at Valley View Nursing Home.

The council also participated in the YMCA of Williamsport Back-to-School event, promoting 4-H and connecting with local families. These efforts allowed the club to make a meaningful impact on the community while strengthening their planning, teamwork, and leadership abilities.

The final goal aimed at having at least 50% of members attend one or more day camps to enhance their leadership skills. Six members participated, mentoring younger youth and serving as positive role models throughout the camps. This hands-on experience strengthened their confidence, responsibility, and ability to lead by example.

In addition to achieving their SMART goals, the award application evaluated members’ broader involvement, including events attended, projects completed, personal goals set, and the organization and completion of officer books. Each officer submitted a reflection highlighting their growth and included photos demonstrating their work in their respective roles.

Out of nine counties that submitted applications for 2025, Lycoming County was selected as a recipient of the statewide award. This marks the fifth time the Lycoming County 4-H County Council has earned this distinguished recognition–an accomplishment that reflects the dedication, service, and leadership of its teen members.

According to the news release, the 2025 members and officers for the Lycoming County’s 4-H County Council included Katie Shipton- President, Caitlyn Shrodo- Vice President, Crickett Robbins- Secretary, Makayla Heyler- Treasurer, Peyton Hartman- Historian, Blake Snyder- Recreation/ Snack Coordinator, Members- Adi Brelsford, Mackenzie Heyler, Lucas Schon, Grace Winter, and Rachel Winter.

For additional information on 4-H programs in Pennsylvania, contact your county Penn State Cooperative Extension office at extension.psu.edu/counties or visit the Pennsylvania 4-H Program web site at extension.psu.edu/programs/4-h.

Administered in Pennsylvania by Penn State Extension, 4-H is a community of more than 6 million young people across America learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills. Penn State Extension 4-H youth development educators in all 67 counties throughout the commonwealth administer local 4-H programs through non-formal education and outreach. To find your local program, visit the Penn State Extension website at https://extension.psu.edu/programs/4-h.

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