Allamakee County 4-H celebrates the benefits of 4-H and the support received from local volunteers that helps make the program succesful
National 4-H Week 2015, being observed October 4-10, offers a great opportunity to recognize both the highlights of the local 4-H program for area youth, as well as the contributions of adults in the community who contribute their efforts in support of the program. During National 4-H Week, the Allamakee County 4-H program celebrates both aspects that make the program the success that it is within the local area.
4-H SERVICE AWARDS
The 4-H Service Award has been presented this year to two individuals who have served many years on the 4-H Youth Development Committee. Their dedication to serve the 4-H youth of Allamakee County is shown through their participation as superintendents, club leaders, helping with conference judging, appreciation supper, and the livestock auction. But, above all, they are a key part of the support system available to Allamakee County 4-H youth.
Kerry Troendle of Waukon has served on the Youth Development Committee and has given many years as a Beef superintendent. He has put in many hours assisting with county functions and assisting with the beef project, just to name a few. Troendle has also been a 4-H parent to his three children and assists with the West Ridge Riders 4-H Club. "The time and talents Kerry has dedicated to 4-H are beyond appreciated," said Morgan Bjerke, Youth Coordinator for Allamakee County ISU Extension and Outreach.
Teresa Myers' 4-H involvement has spanned many years as a 4-H Club leader and parent, the 4-H County Council Advisor, and a member of the Youth Development Committee. She is also a member of the Allamakee County Fair Board, announces for the fair livestock shows and assists youth with their projects. "With her volunteering of her time and talents, Teresa is a huge asset to the Allamakee County Fair and to the Allamakee County 4-H Program," Bjerke said.
Allamakee County 4-H would like to express its appreciation to these individuals for giving their time, talents and dedication to the youth in the community.
PROMOTING THE BENEFITS OF 4-H
Now is the time of year for youth to join and participate in 4-H, the youth development program of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Allamakee County is celebrating all things 4-H during National 4-H Week this week, October 4-10.
4-H is active in each of Iowa’s 99 counties and empowers youth to reach their full potential through many different types of experiences, including photography, music, woodworking, sewing, archery, livestock and horticulture. Youth have fun while gaining valuable skills in communication and the arts, citizenship and leadership, science, technology, engineering and math, as well as healthy living and personal life management by being involved in 4-H.
“The 4-H County Council traveled across the county September 14-18 to visit all fourth grade classrooms in Allamakee County. They promoted 4-H by having the youth participate in a 4-H Jeopardy game. Everyone was a winner and went home with a bag of 4-H trail mix and a folder with information about 4-H and enrollment forms. Community clubs will be decorating business windows, wearing their 4-H shirts, and helping promote 4-H throughout the week,” said Morgan Bjerke, County Youth Coordinator.
“As National 4-H Week approaches, it is important to remember the 4-H pledge, which is recited at nearly every 4-H club meeting, and what it teaches. I pledge my Head to clearer thinking, my Heart to greater loyalty, my Hands to larger service and my Health to better living, for my club, my community and my world," Bjerke said.
4-H focuses on growing confidence, creativity, curiosity, courage, character and much more in youth. 4-H allows youth to use the skills that they learn to go out and make a positive difference in their communities.
To learn more about how 4-H youth development is empowering young people in Allamakee County or how to become involved in 4-H, visit the ISU Allamakee County Extension and Outreach office or call 563-568-6345.
