Designed to broaden perspectives and foster meaningful cultural connections, Washakie County 4-H’s 2026 “Courage to Explore: Across Cultures” program combined immersive activities, educational exploration, and personal growth opportunities.
The program recently concluded, leaving a lasting impact on the 4-H youth, chaperones, and community members who made the journey possible.
The adventure began before even hitting the road, with 4-H’ers learning travel safety, table etiquette, conflict management, and more.
Once on the road, “Courage to Explore” started with a cultural dining experience in Cheyenne at L’Osteria Mondello, where 4-H youth were introduced to authentic Italian cuisine and the importance of food in cultural storytelling.
From there, the group traveled to Denver, launching several days filled with exploration and hands-on learning.
4-H youth toured the U.S. Mint, gaining insight into the nation’s history and economy, before participating in an interactive workshop and gallery exploration at the Denver Art Museum.
Lunch at Baghdad Restaurant provided another opportunity to experience global flavors, followed by a visit to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, where 4-H youth explored science, innovation, and discovery.
That evening, dinner at a Vietnamese Restaurant introduced youth participants to Vietnamese culture and traditions.
After dinner, the group attended an unforgettable performance of The Phantom of the Opera at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, exposing 4-H’ers to the performing arts at a professional level.
The next day featured a tortilla-making class and taco bar lunch, encouraging hands-on cultural learning.
At the Colorado State University Spur campus, 4-H youth engaged in both self-guided and faculty-led activities focused on AI technology and agriculture. A tour of Morning Fresh Dairy in Fort Collins offered insight into agriculture and sustainability.
In the evening, dinner at Himalayan Bistro provided another global culinary experience.
On the final day, 4-H youth toured the Wyoming State Capitol, learning about state government and civic engagement. The group then returned home, reflecting on a journey filled with new perspectives and meaningful connections.
“This was a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said one 4-H participant. “I learned that all of this culture is so close and that it is all around us every day I just didn’t know it.”
Another student shared, “I learned that a lot of people talk about cities like they’re horrible places, but it was really nice to go there and see everything for myself and learn that they’re not.”
Chaperones who accompanied the group emphasized the transformational nature of the experience. “Watching these 4-H youth grow in just a short time was incredible,” said one chaperone. “They became more independent, more open-minded, and more willing to engage with the unfamiliar.”
The success of the “Courage to Explore: Across Cultures” program was made possible through the generous support of donors and community partners. Their contributions ensured that 4-H youth had access to an opportunity that might otherwise have been out of reach.
“We believe in investing in experiences that shape future leaders,” said a program donor. “Seeing the impact on these 4-H youth reinforces why programs like this are so important.”
As the program concludes, organizers hope to continue expanding opportunities for youth to explore, learn, and connect across cultures. The lessons gained from this experience will continue to resonate in participants’ lives, inspiring them to approach the world with curiosity, courage, and compassion.
For more information about future programs or to support “Courage to Explore,” please contact Amber Armajo with Washakie County 4-H at (307) 347-3431.
