Milligan attends National 4-H Congress

Warren County 4-H member Drew Milligan was selected to attend this annual event after being named a state winner in the nutrition, health and fitness project. This high school senior is the son of Kim and Tina Milligan. Drew’s project has included teaching healthy eating habits to over 500 elementary students at the annual Farm Day. He has assisted with bread-baking workshops and has helped conduct the County 4-H bread-baking contest. Drew attributes his healthy lifestyle to his physical conditioning, and is a member of the Warren County High School wrestling team and has lost over 50 pounds since eighth grade.

Drew has spent countless hours in community service projects as a member of the Warren County 4-H Honor Club. Volunteering at Second Harvest Food Bank, serving meals to senior citizens and assembling fruit bags for the elderly are just a few of the projects in which Drew has had a leadership role. Winning the State 4-H Consumer Decision Making Judging Contest and representing Tennessee at the National Western 4-H Roundup in Denver, Colorado, is his most rewarding experience in 4-H. Upon college graduation, Drew has career goals of being a high school teacher and a 4-H volunteer.

The 85th National 4-H Congress recognizes our nation?s brightest and best young people. The Tennessee delegation of 38 winners from the state was certainly no exception. They gained knowledge and skills during their Atlanta experience that will empower them to return to their communities and continue to “Make the Best Better.” It provided a springboard for their development as the leaders of the future.

National 4-H Congress highlights were provided by speakers Dan Thurmon, Lt. General Russel L. Honore?, Barbara Chamberlin and Rick Rigsby. These individuals inspired the Congress delegates with their stories of personal accomplishments and positive views of life.

While at Congress, delegates enjoyed a pin exchange and Dime Drop; lunch at the Georgia World Congress Center and an international dinner in a world village. They also participated in an evening of culture at the Atlanta History Museum and conducted a variety of service learning projects.

Workshops helped delegates to learn and gain skills related to healthy lifestyle choices. They focused on areas such as eating healthy, exercise, personal safety and positive self-image. Additionally, delegates became aware of their leadership strengths and weaknesses through team building exercises and learned about the roles of leaders when working with groups.