Recently, around 1,000 young people from the Florida 4-H program met with state legislators. They shared personal experiences and advocated for the revitalization of Camp Cherry Lake. The event, Florida 4-H Day at the Capitol, is a significant day for the 4-H community. It offers the youth a chance to understand the legislative process and express their needs and achievements.
Winter Merilan, a 17-year-old participant, shared her positive experiences with the 4-H program. She highlighted the support she received from her 4-H Extension agent, particularly after her father’s death. Winter, a member of a Florida 4-H program in Leon County, spoke about the sense of community she found in the program.
The young advocates requested continued legislative support for the 4-H program. They emphasized the importance of outdoor science learning opportunities at 4-H camps. They also advocated for a $3.5 million campaign to restore Camp Cherry Lake, a key 4-H camp with limited cabin space.
Morgan Newman, a 17-year-old participant from the FAMU 4-H club, expressed her enthusiasm about the event. She discussed the leadership skills and knowledge about agricultural job opportunities she gained through 4-H and the camp. She and others met with Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, expressing their hopes for the 4-H program’s future.