I was honored to be selected as one of only three Extension agents statewide to present in the general session at this year’s Kansas State University Extension Annual Conference. I had the privilege of highlighting a program that has grown within our district, the Water Ambassadors Program.
This initiative is modeled after the Texas Water Ambassadors program and is designed for youth ages 13 and older.
Our goal is to provide meaningful leadership opportunities while helping young people understand and engage in water conservation, water quality, and water-related careers. All areas that directly impact the future of our Kansas communities.
This program is truly a collaborative effort. I co-lead it with the Barton County Extension 4-H Agent, Ben Sims, and we are fortunate to partner with:
• City of Hays Water Conservation Specialist, Holly Dickman
• Kansas Wetlands Education Center Program Specialist, Mandy Kern
• KCARE (Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment) Watershed Specialist, Stacie Minson
Together, we offer two training events where the ambassadors gain hands-on water education, learn to use program curriculum and develop strong public speaking and presentation skills. From there, ambassadors put their knowledge into action through community outreach, including:
• World Water Day Fun Fest at Sternberg Museum
• Day camps at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center
• Presentations to civic groups
• After-school and in-school programming
• Statewide events, such as Discovery Days and the Governor's Water Conference
So far, 13 youth have completed the program and each year our ambassadors reach more than 300 youth and adults through education and outreach. Watching these young leaders gain confidence, serve their communities, and explore future careers in natural resources has been incredibly rewarding.
We are already in conversations with partners across Kansas who are interested in expanding this model statewide, an exciting next step for our program in Kansas.
I am grateful for the opportunity to share this work at the state level and even more grateful for the support from our district, partners, and the incredible youth who make this program successful.
Cottonwood 4-H20 Ambassadors Program Highlighted at State Conference