The 4-H Ontario Ambassador program provides youth with advanced level training in leadership, citizenship, communications and public relations. Ambassadors put their energy and 4-H experiences to work recruiting new members and sharing the 4-H story. Throughout 2016, each of 4-H Ontario’s six Ambassadors will submit blog entries about their experiences in the program. The 4-H Ontario Ambassador program is proudly sponsored by GROWMARK, Inc. and UPI Energy LP. For more info on the Ambassador program click here. To book an Ambassador for you event please complete the request form. Submitted by Julie French, 4-H Ontario Youth Ambassador from Peel 4-H Association 4-H In A Country Song Beat this summer As fall fast approaches, I take some time to reflect on the days of summer. The country music, the warm weather, the time spent with family and friends, and the memories made. But the summer would not have been complete without the numerous 4-H clubs I partook in and the 4-H opportunities I had the chance to attend. Through the variety of engaging activities 4-H offers, I had one of the best summers to date gaining valuable life skills in unique ways. Ain’t no way I’m gonna beat this summer! Humble and Kind From driving to flying, I got the chance to have a small glimpse at our province’s diversified landscape. With 4-H being offered even in the most northern regions, it was incredible to see the commitment and enthusiasm to the 4-H program that members and volunteers displayed. While attending the Region 1 Discovery Day in Emo in May, I was astounded at the turnout of young members, all eager to become more engaged in the 4-H program! This was such a humbling experience for me as I observed young Cloverbuds break free from their initial nervousness and become leaders to look out for in their future years of the program. You’ve got new mountains to climb but always stay humble and kind. People know you by your first name Raised on 4-H, country music star Dean Brody has made his name as an artist in both Canada and the U.S. He has proven the value of hard work and the value of the 4-H program. He has also proven that no dream is too big. His journey inspires members of the 4-H program to “Learn To Do By Doing” and to not be afraid to step out of their comfort zone. I will admit that I have been challenged to step outside my comfort zone as a 4-H Ontario Ambassador for the year. I’ve gained so many valuable life skills and been so fortunate to be able to network with sponsors of the 4-H program, 4-H staff,   4-H volunteers, 4-H members and 4-H alumni. The River This summer has been so fast-paced, from Discovery Days in Regions 1, 2, and 4 to the Golf West Tournament, to the Sponsor Tour and UPI Charity Golf Tournament! These experiences have provided so much personal development. Trying to learn from what’s behind you and never knowing what’s in store. I am thrilled to have learned as much as I have thus far and excited to see what the next few months have to offer! Play it again It seems like such a short time ago, the six 4-H Ontario Ambassadors were announced for the year and now here we are, seven months into the program! More than halfway through the year, I’m so grateful for the opportunities I have been given! It’s gone by in the blink of an eye, I almost wish I could play it again!