Adams County 4-H Junior Leaders Relaunches to Empower Local Teens

Adams County’s 4‑H program has revived its Junior Leaders group, opening a monthly space for older teens to lead projects, plan events, and provide service across the county. Organizers are holding an interactive kickoff meeting Thursday, Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Adams County Fairgrounds and will continue meeting on the first Thursday of each month.

The Junior Leaders program is open to any teen in grades 7–12 and aims to build leadership skills while strengthening ties between young people and community organizations. Meetings are designed to be interactive and youth-driven, with opportunities to plan countywide activities, recruit peers, and carry out service projects that address local needs.

For Adams County residents, the program’s return has practical public health and social implications. Participation in organized youth programs can enhance mental health through social connection, structured activity and purpose. By bringing teens together in a safe, welcoming environment, the county supports healthy adolescent development and builds social capital that benefits community resilience.

The relaunch also raises equity and access questions that local officials and nonprofits will need to address. While the program is open to all eligible teens, common barriers such as transportation, awareness, and competing work or family responsibilities can limit who participates. Ensuring outreach to low-income neighborhoods, partnering with schools to share information, and considering rideshare or bus coordination could help broaden access.

Sustaining the program will require predictable support. Volunteer leaders, staff time, meeting space and supplies all matter for quality youth programming. Investments by the county, local businesses and community foundations can extend the reach of Junior Leaders and connect teens to broader opportunities such as scholarships, internships and civic roles.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to bring teens, friends and ideas to the kickoff meeting. For community stakeholders, the program presents a chance to engage young leaders in efforts ranging from fairground events to public health initiatives, making youth a visible part of local planning and service delivery.

As the group begins monthly meetings at the fairgrounds, organizers and community partners will have an early opportunity to shape a program that not only develops individual leadership skills but also addresses structural barriers so all Adams County teens can participate and thrive.