PROCTORVILLE — Patrick McCoy of Proctorville recently returned from the Higher Ground leadership conference sponsored by Ohio Farm Bureau. The “learn by doing” event was held at Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware. Teens ages 14-18 from across Ohio were hand-chosen to attend the six day conference.

The program provided the participants with a working knowledge of the democratic structure of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation as well as leadership, agribusiness and personal development skills. Daily workshops on leadership keystones provided youth with plans for goal setting, people skills, and communication excellence.

Participants developed skills in public speaking, leading discussions and working together by organizing a Farm Bureau complete with Advisory Councils, a Public Policy Committee, and a Farm Bureau Board.

Teen leaders organized a mock House of Representatives to experience how our state government develops legislation.

They introduced bills and held hearings on the current livestock issues facing Ohio and wrote letters to Ohio legislators.

Participants also gained hands on experience about cooperatives and agribusiness by forming their own co op refreshment store complete with a board of directors.

Teen leaders also experienced a workshop on e-media and the increasingly important role of reaching your audience through mediums like facebook and twitter. They also participated in workshops including self defense, vocal music, and public speaking.

The conference was hosted by the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation in cooperation with the county Farm Bureaus.