4-H Continues to Grow in Leaps and Bounds

Published: 2019
By Allison Kosto

Broadwater County 4-H set another enrollment record of 149 club members, which is a 67% increase in five years. In the fall, a new club was formed by Josie Reynolds and Becky Flynn called the Rocky Mountain Rough Hands. Because of the growth, the program started strategic planning to set priorities and goals for the next several years. Priorities included orientating new families, increasing parent involvement, recruiting leaders, expanding number of clubs and improving fairgrounds facilities. The program is supported by 45 certified volunteers who lead clubs, organize project work, serve on committees, and coordinate events and activities. On average, volunteers spent 8 hours per month with 4-H. This commitment equates to a value of $99,749 of time given by 4-H volunteers to support county youth. Through 4-H, youth learn life skills including leadership, communication, critical thinking, goal setting, and healthy choices. Members shared how they have grown through 4-H this year: • “4-H Has taught me responsibility and showmanship.” –Sarah Morgan, 10 years old • “Kids learn life skills by leading hands on projects in areas like science, health, agriculture and civic engagement. 4-H helps us people grow confidence…” –Grace Kluin, 12 years old • “In the future, I think my 4-H experience will help me in many ways. It has helped me to mature, learn responsibility and learn the importance of being an active community member.” –Emily Pizzini, 18 years old • “I know that in the future I will be better prepared for difficult situations and problems because of the skills 4-H has taught me. 4-H will help me throughout the rest of my life, even in the moments I may not know that it will.” –Andrew Ferrat, 18 years old