Path to Becoming an Effective Ambassador Starts at Home

Your role as a State 4-H Ambassador is one that few of the more than 50,000 4-H members across Texas will attain. It affords you the opportunity to travel and participate in many events across the state and beyond. This role as allows you to meet and collaborate with others outside 4-H and
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.

However, this role should not supersede your participation and support of your local 4-H club. In fact, the path to becoming an effective state ambassador begins at home where you have many opportunities to develop your leadership skills while supporting other club activities. While a State 4-H Water Ambassador, you are first and foremost representing your club.

Those new to the 4-H Water Ambassadors Program will notice that your first "required" assignment is to meet with your local county extension agent. The primary objective is to ensure that they are aware of your new role. While some of you already know your agent quite well, do not assume they know you are a 4-H Water Ambassador. For those relatively new to 4-H, this step is very important. It gives them an opportunity to learn more about you, and gives you an opportunity to learn about Extension events throughout the year where you can earn service hours.

Joshua Jones (Smith Co.) meets with his county extension agent.

You have heard that "communication is key". This is extremely important in your role as 4-H Water Ambassador. Communication with your extension agent and club leader is a must, especially in regards to your activities outside your county and those that require a letter of excuse for absence from school. If you know that you will need an excused absence, first work with your extension agent. Make sure they know about this one or two weeks in advance. I understand schools vary in their requirements.

Finally, timely communication and reporting of your education and service efforts is important. The 4-H Water Ambassadors Program is made possible by the generous donations and sponsorship in the water industry. For the program to be sustainable and keep their support, we must demonstrate the impact the program is having throughout the state. Our primary means of communicating your achievements are through social media, and that requires that posts be current in nature and visually appealing - pictures are essential!

I wish you well in the coming year and look forward to all the good things you will accomplish in this leadership role!

David Smith