Gallatin 4-H Gains New Leadership and Adapts to Circumstances

Published: 2020
By JaNaie' Godin

The Gallatin County 4-H Program started 2020 off with a new 4-H Agent. JaNaie’ Godin had been the Gallatin Extension Administrative Assistant for six years working with 4-H families with enrollment and trainings. Godin has a background in education and plans to use that foundation in educating adult volunteers in youth development and adapting programming to ages and stages and life skills, along with providing youth members educational programs that can be used in their future jobs, houses, and higher education. As with every organization across Montana, Gallatin County 4-H found ways to adapt to restrictions and guidelines. Many 4-H volunteers quickly adapted with virtual meetings on Zoom, Google Meet Ups, and Webex. Every April, Gallatin County 4-H competes in Public Communication Contests and even during the stay-at-home order, 36 youth competed virtually and give speeches and demonstrations to virtual judges. A week after scores were tallied, we held a virtual award ceremony for all participants and families to announce winners. Judges comments, award ribbons, and prizes were mailed to participants. As we reflect on 2020 with adapting and finding new ways to deliver traditional events and educational experiences, we see that youth remain resilient and are always willing to be involved because they truly care about what they do in the 4-H program. 4-H volunteers are passionate and continue to provide the best experience for youth, and the story of 4-H success continues for members and their families.