We are just days away from ringing in 2018 and for many of us that typically means a resolution or two. But, what about making a resolution to “give back” some of your time, talent or resources? Did you ever think about some of your fondest childhood memories or perhaps memories made together as family? Are you in a place in your life to give back to those organizations or charities that helped you become the person you are today?
One of my best friends always tells me her ability to set a table, or put together a well- balanced meal for her family came from her very first 4-H project some years ago. Another close friend has shared with me the memories of the horse show arena and the swimming pool and friendships made at a now abandoned Fairgrounds during her 4-H years. (Yes, a fairgrounds with a swimming pool, it was a summer fair!!) While neither of these ladies grew up in Fairfield County, their memories of their special times in the 4-H program around Ohio are so strong, they both are supporters of 4-H awards, trips and regularly attend the Legacy Dinner here in Fairfield County.
If you have those same fond memories, then consider giving back your time and talents to the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment in 2018. Start thinking now about making a creative basket, or special wall hanging or painting for the Silent Auction that will be held at the 2018 Legacy Dinner. Or better yet, mark the date: Thursday, June 14, 2018 at the Miller Farm Shop on Richland Road near Pleasantville on your calendar, invite a friend, and plan to attend the 2018 Endowment Dinner.
Just a quick recap of the activities of the 4-H Endowment Board in 2017
- The 2017 Endowment Dinner was hosted by the Grube Family near Baltimore
- We served 300 meals to our 4-H friends and guests
- Proceeds from ticket sales, Live and Silent Auction netted nearly $22,000.00 for the Endowment
- Approximately $4,700.00 comes back directly to the Fairfield County 4-H program each year thru interest received from funds held in the Ohio State University Fairfield County 4-H Endowment account. This past year those funds were used for camp scholarships, awards and training supplies for 4-H camp counselors, Junior Fairboard members.
- The Fairfield County Fair 4-H Endowment awareness event at the Fair! We started the morning in the Ed Sands/ Farm Bureau building with a ‘Pancake Flippin’ good time with a pancake and sausage breakfast for all. This event is a donation event and proceeds are used to pay the pancake caterer for the morning. Make plans to join us on Sunday morning October 7, 2018 and continue your “give back” resolution!!
- And finally, in 2017 thanks to generous donations totaling $1700 from three different local families, the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment received an additional $950.00 match from the Fairfield County Foundation’s annual “28 Hour Give” program.
SO, in closing there are multitudes of ways you can make a “Give Back” resolution for the New Year with the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment program.
When I was asked to serve on this Committee in 2014, I did not know what I really had to offer but as I learned more about the responsibilities, I found I liked to write Thank You notes and we do write lots of Thank You notes. So that was the start of my “Giving Back” journey . . . writing Thank You notes, pretty easy!
Fast forward, three short years and I found my passion in meeting some excellent 4-H club members in our County and making sure they were the focus of our Legacy Dinner events. In addition, I was able to reconnect old friendships, re-live some great 4-H memories and realize our good works were all about helping future generations of 4-Hers. So, before you make all of those New Year’s Resolutions, make a resolution to simply “Give Back” some of you. Your time and talents would most definitely be appreciated by the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment Board.
Best New Year’s Wishes,
Connie