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January 10, 2026 • 5 min read • 4-H NC 4-H South Central District 4-H

Winter Enrichment 2026

Winter Enrichment

Source: Union County 4-H Youth Development Facebook

This weekend, I had the privilege of attending the 2026 Winter Enrichment program hosted by the South Central District Officers. It was an incredible day filled with community service, learning opportunities, and lots of fun with fellow 4-H members from across the district.

Giving Back: Sorting Socks for Those in Need

We started the day with a meaningful community service activity organized by The ODD Sock, a non-profit organization that brings socks to volunteers for inspection and categorization. Our task was to sort donated socks by size for distribution to those in need.

Here's something that surprised me: socks are the most needed, but least donated clothing item at shelters. It's such a simple thing we often take for granted, but for someone experiencing homelessness or hardship, a clean pair of socks can make a huge difference in their comfort and health.

Working alongside other 4-H members to sort hundreds of socks was both humbling and rewarding. It reminded me that even small acts of service can have a big impact on our community.

Workshop 1: The Great Hot Dog Debate

After our service project, we participated in a mock debate workshop that was both educational and entertaining. The question at hand: Is a hot dog a sandwich?

We were split into groups and assigned either the affirmative or negative position. My group had to argue that no, a hot dog IS NOT a sandwich. It was harder than you'd think! We had to:

  • Research and develop logical arguments
  • Anticipate counterarguments from the opposing team
  • Practice public speaking and debate skills
  • Work as a team to build a cohesive case

While the topic was lighthearted, the skills we practiced were serious: critical thinking, persuasive communication, teamwork, and the ability to defend a position even if you don't personally agree with it. These are invaluable skills for 4-H presentations, school debates, and life in general.

Workshop 2: Leadership and Getting Involved

The second workshop was a bracelet-making activity, but it was about much more than just crafts. As we created our bracelets, we learned about:

  • Running for District Office: What it takes to become a district officer and how to prepare
  • Leadership Opportunities: Ways to get involved beyond the county level
  • Making Connections: Networking with 4-H members from other counties
  • Career Pathways: How 4-H leadership experience translates to future opportunities

The bracelet we made will serve as a reminder of what we learned and the connections we made. I'm seriously considering running for a district position next year!

Fun Time: Stars and Strikes

After lunch, we headed to Stars and Strikes for our recreational activity. We spent the afternoon:

  • Playing arcade games
  • Bowling with friends old and new
  • Laughing, competing, and just enjoying each other's company

This recreational time was just as important as the structured activities. Building friendships and having fun together is a huge part of what makes 4-H special. Some of my best memories from 4-H aren't from winning competitions or completing projects—they're from moments like these, laughing with friends and feeling part of a community.

Why Winter Enrichment Matters

Events like Winter Enrichment are what make 4-H such a unique organization. In a single day, we:

  1. Served our community through hands-on volunteer work
  2. Developed and improved skills through workshops
  3. Built connections with 4-H members from across the district
  4. Had fun and created lasting memories

This combination of service, learning, and recreation is what the 4-H experience is all about. It's not just about livestock shows or project competitions—it's about becoming a well-rounded person who cares about their community and has the skills to make a difference.

What's Next?

Since my 4-H age is 13, I can finally be more involved within my district by attending events like Winter Enrichment.

I'm planning to:

  • Attend more district events and meetings
  • Learn the process to run for a district officer position
  • Encourage other 4-H members from my club to attend next year's Winter Enrichment

Thank You

A huge thank you to the South Central District Officers for organizing such an amazing event. The time, effort, and planning that goes into coordinating an event like this doesn't go unnoticed. You created an experience that combined learning, service, and fun in the perfect balance.

And thank you to The ODD Sock for partnering with us and teaching us about the importance of sock donations. I'll never look at socks the same way again!

For Other 4-H Members

If you're a 4-H member reading this, I strongly encourage you to attend your state and district's events. These teen events are opportunities to:

  • Meet amazing people from other counties
  • Learn skills you won't get anywhere else
  • Discover leadership opportunities
  • Have fun while making a difference

Don't wait until you're older or think you need to be extremely invovled within 4-H to attend. These events are for everyone, and you'll get so much out of them no matter your age or experience level.