GREENSBORO, NC – On March 7, 2026, the Greensboro-High Point Marriott Airport transformed into a hub of inspiration and innovation as 4-H volunteers from across the state gathered for the annual North Carolina 4-H Volunteer Leaders’ Conference. Representing Pitt County were dedicated leaders Tonya Reid, Estelle Mack, and Mildred A. Council. While these three represent the long-standing Pitt County All-Stars Club, their participation at the state level serves as a call to action for all Pitt County volunteers to engage with this transformative professional development opportunity.
Pitt County 4-H Leaders Sharpen Skills at 2026 North Carolina State Volunteer Conference
A Gateway to New Ideas
The State Volunteer Leaders’ Conference (VLA) is designed to recharge the batteries of those who dedicate their time to North Carolina’s youth. This year’s event offered a deep dive into the modern 4-H experience, providing attendees with:
- Cutting-Edge Workshops: From integrating new STEM technologies into club meetings to mastering the "A-Z" of 4-H Online management, the sessions provided practical tools that can be implemented in any club setting.
- The Power of Networking: One of the greatest benefits of the conference is the "Idea Swap." Pitt County leaders had the chance to sit down with volunteers from the mountains to the coast, sharing success stories on fundraising, community service projects, and youth recruitment.
- State-Level Vision: Attendees gained first-hand insight into the future of North Carolina 4-H, participating in the installation of the new State VLA Officers and learning about upcoming statewide initiatives and competitions.
Why Every Pitt County Leader Should Attend
Whether you lead a Horse Club, a Livestock Club, a Cloverbud group, or a traditional community club, the State Conference is the ultimate venue to "Make the Best Better."
"Attending the state conference isn't just about representing your individual club; it’s about strengthening the entire Pitt County 4-H program," said the Pitt County Extension 4-H Agent. "When our leaders attend, they bring back a wealth of resources, curriculum, and enthusiasm that benefits every child in our county."
The experience is a reminder that as volunteers, we are part of a massive, supportive network. Seeing the Greensboro Marriott filled with hundreds of people wearing the green clover reinforces the impact that 4-H has on the lives of young North Carolinians.
Join Us Next Year!
N.C. Cooperative Extension and the Pitt County 4-H program encourage all registered volunteers to consider attending the 2027 conference. Whether you have been a leader for 30 years or 30 days, there is a place for you at the table.
Let’s continue the momentum started by Tonya, Estelle, and Mildred. Let’s show North Carolina that Pitt County is committed to excellence in youth leadership!
For more information on how to register for future state training opportunities or to learn more about the North Carolina 4-H Volunteer Leaders’ Association, visit the NC 4-H Volunteer Training Website or contact the Pitt County 4-H office at (252) 902-1712.