Teamwork is an important aspect of youth development. We all have to work with others – at our jobs, in civic organizations, and even when we have fun.

Good teamwork takes communication skills and a willingness to set aside your own success for the good of the group.

A little over a week ago, Barton County 4-H families came together to put on our annual 4-H BBQ and this requires a great deal of teamwork!

We have a great crew who gives up a Saturday morning to prepare the meat with one of those families monitoring the cooking process for the next 24 hours.

We had great groups of families who showed up to pour tea, roll silverware, prepare the sides, set up tables and chairs, and stand in the rain to direct traffic, take tickets, deliver meals to the cars. They washed dishes and mopped the floors. If we needed someone in a different role, they quickly adjusted and moved to where they were needed. 

In addition, most of the clubs set up informational displays about many of the nearly 40 project areas offered by Kansas 4-H.

In addition to the 4-H families, we appreciate the teamwork of several local organizations which include Moeder Oil, KFC, Town & Country Supermarket, Barton Community College, the Barton County Fair Association, Ellinwood Packing, and several individuals which include Aaron Maresch, Kevin Arnberger, and Aaron Spanier. We also appreciate the media, chambers of commerce, libraries, and rec centers who shared information to help make this event a success. You have all set a great example of community teamwork!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent for the Cottonwood District, Barton County office. Contact her at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.