I often like to ask, what do a Top Chef, a Congresswoman, a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force, an Indy Car Driver, and a Triple Crown winner all have in common? We are all 4-H alumni, and we are living examples that leadership comes in all shapes and sizes.

As a young girl growing up in rural Eastern Washington, 4-H is where I first learned many of the life and leadership lessons that I still lean on today. It’s where I gave my first public speech and raised Freckles, my first 4-H lamb.

I never dreamed that a little girl from Kettle Falls would one day serve as the 200th woman ever elected to Congress – or be the first woman to chair the House Energy and Commerce Committee. I’ve truly lived the American Dream.

4-H played a critical role in making me the person I am today, and I know I’m not alone. For more than 100 years, the 4-H program has been dedicated to one goal: Providing young people with the confidence and leadership skills to aim high and reach their full potential. Today, the organization supports nearly 6 million young people nationwide.

In Congress, I’m committed to making sure that work continues as a proud co-chair of the Congressional 4-H Caucus. This week, I joined my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in leading a resolution to celebrate National 4-H Week (October 1-7) and ensure this program continues to encourage the next generation of unique and dynamic leaders to be bold, shoot for the stars, and chase their dreams.

4-H gives young people across our country the tools and skills they need to make our world a better place, so I hope you’ll join me in celebrating this wonderful program.

Click here to read the resolution.