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Kansas 4-H Tip Sheet

October 15, 2025

Reignite YOUR Why

Submitted by Sarah E. Maass

In the day-to-day of planning programs, mentoring youth, working with volunteers, and juggling all the logistics, it’s easy to focus on the what and forget the why. But in 4-H, our work is rooted in something deeper—something transformational.

You are not just preparing youth for the future. You are helping them be Beyond Ready for all the things they will experience throughout life. Every time you guide a young person through a challenge, encourage them to lead, or help them find their voice, you’re doing more than teaching skills. You’re cultivating confidence, resilience, and purpose. You’re helping them thrive—not just in the next step, but in every step after.

Beyond Ready is more than a mindset. It’s a movement. And our 4-H professionals and volunteers are at the heart of it. You model what it means to lead with intention, to serve with heart, and to grow through change. You show youth that readiness isn’t just about being prepared—it’s about being empowered.

So today, take a breath. Reflect on the lives you’ve touched. Reconnect with your purpose. And remember:

You are a mentor. A guide. A catalyst for growth.

The world needs more leaders who are helping youth be Beyond Ready. And it starts with you.