Buffalo County 4-H youth, Emma Pearl Jardine and Jaden Brenden of Hilltop Climbers 4-H participate in the 4-H American Spirit Experience, June 20-29, 2025 .
The 4-H American Spirit Experience is an opportunity for youth in grades 8-10 to immerse themselves in history and heritage through a 10-day bus journey to the East Coast and Canada. Staff and volunteers plan and facilitate the experience, while youth participants lead content throughout. Participants expanded their knowledge of American history by visiting significant sites and gained unique exposure to diverse cultural experiences and perspectives foundational to our nation. This program focuses on career readiness, leadership development, and experiential learning around history and civics, with an emphasis on diversity and the challenges that different groups of people have faced.
From Jaden Brenden
“Overall this trip was amazing! I know that not everything went to plan with having to switch busses four times and the heat. I would highly recommend this trip to everyone. Even if you’re not into history, the trip had something special for everyone. Exploring different cultures and ways of life through out our country was one of my highlights of the trip. I got to try many new things and meet amazing people through that experience. The Niagara Falls and seeing the cities were probably one of my favorite. I tried lobster, hot pot, Korean corn dogs and many new things! If i could, i would definitely go on this trip again! Our chaperons were amazing and very helpful.“
From Emma Pearl Jardine
“Thank you so much for the donation. This trip was awesome! I learned so many new things about America and got to meet new people and amazing tour guides. Every adult was awesome. Every historical site was beautiful. My favorite part of the trip was meeting new people and connecting with people I have never met. I will always miss this trip and the people on it.“
Participants developed positive relationships with adults and peers from across the state including chaperones Michelle Moats and Kathy Jardine, also of Hilltop Climbers 4-H. The chaperones commented about their experience.
From chaperone Kathy Jardine “I had the incredible opportunity to serve as one of the adult advisors on the American Spirit trip out East. This was my first time chaperoning this experience. Throughout our journey, we helped guide youth as they explored leadership, stepped outside their comfort zones, and experienced history in a powerful way. From walking tours in Philadelphia and along the Freedom Trail to standing where the first shots of the Revolution were fired in Lexington and Concord, history came alive at every turn. Our group embraced new adventures—trying everything from squid, mussels, and oysters to Korean BBQ, sushi, and hot pot. We soaked in the sights from the Empire State Building, took in the energy of a NYC night bus tour, and stood in awe at the Statue of Liberty. A moving moment for many was finding family names on the Wall of Immigrants at Ellis Island. This was more than a trip—it was a transformative experience for these young leaders, and one I feel honored to have been a part of.”
From chaperone Michelle Moats “This is my fourth time serving as a chaperone for the American Spirit program. Each trip has been a rewarding experience, allowing me to help youth connect with our nation’s history while growing as leaders and citizens.”
By supporting this travel experience opportunity, the Buffalo County 4-H Leaders Association and Wisconsin 4-H help foster leadership and citizenship in our youth.
For more information about Wisconsin 4-H programs and educational experiences visit the Wisconsin 4-H website.
