Author: Leslie Cooksey

Support the Fairfield 4-H Endowment on #GivingTuesday (Dec. 3rd and 4th)

Fairfield County 4-H Supporter,

It’s the giving season, and I wanted to make you aware of an opportunity to increase the impact of your charitable dollars for a program that impacts more than 1,200 youth a year in traditional 4-H clubs and 2,000 youth through school enrichment programs within the county.

Starting at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, December 3rd, the Fairfield County Foundation (one location where funds are invested for the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment) will host their 11th annual #GivingTuesday event.

This year, during the 35-Hour Give, the Foundation will award $35,000 in gifts, matching donations made over 35 hours. Plus, the Foundation is giving away an additional $35,000 this year thanks to a special donation from the Lloyd F. and Diann L. Helber Fund!

When to Give: December 3rd at 8 a.m. through December 4th at 7 p.m.

How to Give: 

  • Donate online at FairfieldCountyFoundation.org through the “Donate Now” button (search “4-H Fairfield County Foundation Fund”), OR
  • In-person to the Fairfield County Foundation offices, located at 162 E. Main Street in Lancaster during office hours (call to confirm 740-654-8451).

These donations must be made online or in-person during the specified 35-hour timeframe to count toward matching funds. Donations received through the mail will not count toward the match. The 35-Hour Give will last until 7 p.m. on December 4th.

Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated; however, the Foundation’s online platform only accepts donations starting at $10. You can learn more about the 35-Hour Give by visiting FairfieldCountyFoundation.org.

As you know, 4-H provides invaluable opportunities for our county’s youth, allowing them to master projects, develop life skills and experience new opportunities. The Fairfield County 4-H Endowment Board was established for the purpose of securing funds to ensure the longevity of the 4-H program in Fairfield County. Your financial support to our endowment funds is needed to secure opportunities for future generations.

Your support in leaving a legacy for Fairfield County 4-H youth is greatly appreciated. Have a blessed Holiday Season!

 

Fairfield County 4-H Endowment Board plans Pancake Breakfast for all!

On Sunday, October 6, 2024 there will be a pancake breakfast at the Fairfield County Fair, from 8-10 AM. Pancakes will be flipping in front of the Ricketts Hall on the north side of the fairgrounds, next to the Ed Sands Building. There will be sausages, fruit and drinks provided as well. Everyone is welcome! Breakfast is free, but donations are welcome and suggested to benefit the 4-H Endowment Fund.

The 4-H Endowment Fund was created to fund a permanent educator position in Fairfield County so that our children will always have access to the 4-H programs offered through Ohio 4H.

Join us at the pancake breakfast for a flipping good time!

2024 Pancake Breakfast – 4-H Legacy Dinner Sponsorship Packet

When you give to the Fairfield County Endowment did you know you are helping to support one of the nation’s largest youth development organizations?

Fairfield County 4-H has been around for over 100 years and has continued to grow and flourish to enhance the life of the youth here in Fairfield County.  Members can participate in over 200 projects, that are organized into five major areas; agriculture, family and community health, leadership and citizenship, natural resources and STEM.  It is believed that kids learn best by doing so participating in projects helps to nurture their love for the topic along with gaining leadership skills that can last a lifetime.

Fairfield County is no stranger to this hands-on learning approach with an outstanding number of 4-H members along with volunteers that help to make this program successful. In 2024, Fairfield County has 953 traditional members ranging from 8 years old and in 3rd grade to 18 years old. Additionally, 202 Cloverbud members, that are 5 years old to 8 years old, are being introduced to the 4-H community. Serving this many members is only possible with the help of 241 adult volunteers who run 55 traditional and specialty clubs.

Most recently in the summer months, the 4-H community has been busy participating in both summer judging and 4-H camp that are both great opportunities for the youth that participate in the programs. During summer judging this year, 403 projects were evaluated which included 273 of the 4-H project members. Summer judging allows 4-H members the opportunity to present the work they completed thru out the year on their projects ranging from cooking, sewing, creative writing, gardening to even Horseless Horse. Presenting to a judge the skills and information they have learned while also developing great interview skills. Judging is taken place during the first of July so that project winners may advance on to State Fair. Over 100 of these projects were selected to move on to the Ohio State Fair in July and August. Fairfield County 4-H Members brought home 41 Outstanding of the Day Rosettes, 6 Clock Trophies, and 2 Cash Awards as state winners.

Summertime isn’t complete though without some fun at 4-H Camp. 4-H members can attend camp both locally and at Tar Hollow State Park and is available for all ages of members. This year, there were 39 members that attended Day Camp at Alley Park along with 62 members that attended Cloverbud Camp also at Alley Park. Junior Camp had a large turnout of 112 members which was hosted down at Tar Hollow along with 61 members that attended Senior Overnight Camp.

The busy 4-H year continues to be in full swing as members and advisors prepare for the Fairfield County Fair in October! The 2024 Fairfield County Fair will be held October 6th through the 12th. Be sure to stop out and support the hard work of the Junior Fair exhibitors by attending the 4-H Endowment Breakfast on Sunday, October 6th from 8-10 a.m. in the Rickett’s Hall. Can’t make it to the breakfast but would like to support the 4-H Endowment? Consider being a pancake breakfast sponsor. More information can be found in our 2024 Pancake Breakfast – 4-H Legacy Dinner Sponsorship Packet.

See you at the fair!

What’s coming up on the auction block?! And, there’s still time to get your tickets!

The 4-H Legacy dinner is just weeks away, and it’s approaching fast. The Endowment Committee is hard at work preparing for this event, and we would like to extend a personal invitation to ensure you don’t miss this remarkable occasion. This event is a prime opportunity to support the Endowment Fund, which offers numerous benefits to 4-H organizations in our county. It’s also a chance to connect with others who share your passion and dedication to this cause. Get your tickets before May 31st by purchasing them online at go.osu.edu/legacy or sending in your response card to RSVP. Click here fore more ticket information.

This year, Cheers Chalet will not only host the event but also cater the meal. For those who have yet to experience their cuisine, it’s an opportunity not to be missed!

We’re excited about the exceptional array of auction items up for bid. We owe huge thanks to everyone who has contributed items so far; the dinner wouldn’t be the same without your support.

Below is a preview of some of the items that will be up for auction.

  • 10 yards of concrete donated by Buckeye Ready Mix
  • 2 OSU Football Tickets to the Sept 21st Marshall vs. Ohio State Football Game donated by Buckeye Ready Mix
  • 1 Spray In Bed Liner donated by McGuire’s Distinctive Trucks
  • Generator donated by McGuire’s Distinctive Truck
  • Suite at the OSU Hockey Game which includes 12 Tickets, 3 Parking Passes, and a $200 food credit donated by Fairfield Real Estate Investors
  • 2 Luke Bryant VIP Tickets donated by Miller Farms
  • Table Top Grill and Charcoal donated by Pickerington Tractor Supply
  • Compost Bin including Compost Charcoal Bricks and Tabletop Compost Crock along with Gardening Kit donated by Kendall Wild (Fairfield County’s own 2024 State Achievement Winner in Environmental Sciences).
  • Fire Pit, 2 Camping Chairs, and S’more Game donated by Kendall Wild

Expect to see a few bundles on the auction too:

  • Camping Bundle that includes: 2 lbs rolls of Sausage, 1 lb sausage Patties, 1 lb Hamburger Patties, 1 lb Brats, 4 New York Strip Steaks, and 4 Pork Chops
  • Destination Downtown Bundle includes: a $20 Gift Certificate to Fruit Passion, a $25 Gift Certificate to JB’s Downtown Grill, a $25 Gift Certificate to Triple P’s, Small Plant from Stump, along with a Gift Certificate for a free haircut from Heritage.
  • Fair Week Fest Bundle includes 4 Jimmy Jawbreakers, $25 Gift Certificate to Falcon’s Nest, $20 Gift Certificate to Bubble Buss
  • Birthday Bash Bundle includes; Free Party Space Rental at Picture Perfect Ranch, Digital Invites done by Rising Tide Marketing, a Certificate for Balloon Arrangement at Sky High Balloons, a one-hour photo session done by Surge Images, and a Gift Card to Clearcreek Cakes and Bakes

Along with other baskets donated by area 4-H clubs along with other locally grown and made products.

And the ever-great Homemade Baked Goods from Pies to Cinnamon Rolls. With Gift Certificates for Homemade Pies made for Thanksgiving Dinner!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity by sending in your reservations or even better scan the QR code and make your reservations online.

Get yours at go.osu.edu/legacy

Or scan this QR code:

Find ticket information linked here. Don’t delay . . . if mailing in your reservation, please have it postmarked by Friday, May 31!

 

There still time to donate to the Legacy Dinner Auction!

The 4-H Endowment Board is still actively taking auction donations for the upcoming Legacy Dinner. Let us know what you or your organization/business will be donating today!

Please review this document for more information: 2024 4-H Legacy Dinner Sponsorship Donation Opportunities

Please return the above form by May 31, 2024 to lcornett11@aol.com and/or stephanie.mathias@vcnbfamily.bank or mail to 4-H Endowment Board, Attn: Auction Item, P.O. Box 564, Lancaster, Ohio 43130.

Leaving a Legacy – Be a sponsor to the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment

The Fairfield County 4-H Endowment is a 501(c)(3) located in Fairfield County, Ohio. Although planning for the endowment was started in 2000, it became fully endowed in 2006. The goal of the board is to generate funds sufficient to endow a 4-H position in Fairfield County and support the 4-H youth development program, allowing the 4-H tradition to continue for generations to come.

The endowment also provides select funding for educational opportunities, achievement trips, training and personal development for 4-H members and volunteers throughout the county. The foundation is operated by a board of nearly 25 local community members who believe in the power of 4-H.

Fairfield County 4-H Highlights:

  • The program serves over 3,150 youth each year through traditional club and school enrichment programming.
  • This year, 241 active 4-H volunteers will lead 55 project clubs and 25 Cloverbud clubs.
  • The program offers four summer camp options, where more than 350 youth attend camp annually.

The first Legacy Dinner fundraiser was held in 2010 and draws hundreds of attendees who support the youth in the Fairfield County 4-H program. We invite you to attend and/or support our annual event this year. The 2024 Legacy Dinner will be held on Thursday, June 13 at Cheers Chalet, located at 1211 Coonpath Road NW, Lancaster, OH 43130. RSVP forms are located at u.osu.edu/4Hlegacy.

Legacy Dinner Agenda:

  • 5:00 p.m. – Registration, social hour and silent auction
  • 6:00 p.m. – Dinner catered by Cheers Chalet
  • 6:45 p.m. – Silent auction closes
  • 7:00 p.m. – Program and live auction

Please consider making a financial contribution with sponsorship or a donation of goods/services to include in our auction. Please complete the attached sponsorship or donation forms by May 31.
You can find contact information for board members leading the sponsorship and auction initiatives on the following pages. For more information about the board, visit u.osu.edu/4Hlegacy.
We appreciate your support.

Please review this document for more information: 2024 4-H Legacy Dinner Sponsorship Donation Opportunities

For sponsorship questions, please contact Leland Tinklepaugh at leland.tinklepaugh@e-farmcredit.com.

ONE WEEK to get your Legacy Dinner reservations in! New this year, get your tickets ONLINE!

The 2024 edition of the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment’s Legacy Dinner and Auction is about three weeks away and, if you’ve yet to get your tickets, the time is now!

This year’s event is Thursday, June 13th and will take place at Cheers Chalet in Lancaster (1211 Coonpath Rd NW).

Schedule for the evening:

  • 5:00 p.m. Registration, Social Hour, and Silent Auction
  • 6:00 p.m. Dinner
  • 6:45 p.m. Silent Auction Closes
  • 7:00 p.m. Program and Live Auction

The entire evening is dedicated to the benefit of the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment all while enjoying great food, fellowship with other supporters of our County’s 4-H program, and perhaps most importantly, lots of fun!

New this year – tickets can be purchased ONLINE!

Get yours at go.osu.edu/legacy

Or scan this QR code:

Find ticket information linked here. Don’t delay . . . if mailing in your reservation, please have it postmarked by Friday, May 31!

Leave a Legacy: Consider a donation or sponsorship of the 2024 4-H Legacy Dinner

The Fairfield County 4-H Endowment Board is busy preparing for the 13th Annual 4-H Endowment Dinner scheduled for Thursday, June 13, 2024 at Cheers Chalet in Lancaster.  We need your help!! One of the highlights of the annual fundraising event is the Live and Silent Auction.  If you, your club, or your business/organization would like to help by donating a gift basket or item for the auction, your donation would be most appreciated.

Please review this document for more information: 2024 4-H Legacy Dinner Sponsorship Donation Opportunities

For sponsorship questions, please contact Leland Tinklepaugh at leland.tinklepaugh@e-farmcredit.com.

Fairfield County 4-H Endowment Board to Host Annual Legacy Dinner June 13, 2024

Event Reservations Due: May 31, 2024

LANCASTER, Ohio – The Fairfield County 4-H Endowment Board is hosting the annual Legacy Dinner where 4-H supporters can enjoy a night out on June 13, as well as raise funds for the 4-H program. The event will be hosted at Cheers Chalet in Lancaster, Ohio, starting with a social hour and silent auction at 5 p.m., followed by dinner catered by Cheers Chalet at 6 p.m. The program and live auction will commence at 7 p.m.

Event tickets are $75 per person, and table reservations that seat eight people are available for $750.

“As a 4-H alumna of Fairfield County, I want to see the program continue to thrive and support our youth,” said Fairfield County 4-H Endowment Board President Heather Wilson. “Our board members are enthusiastic about growing the endowment, and it’s been great to see local businesses, community members and 4-H families generously support the fund since 2006. We’re excited to bring the community together again to support this cause and enjoy a night of fun with friends.”

Although planning for the endowment was started in 2000, it became fully endowed in 2006. The first Legacy Dinner was held in 2010 and has grown to several hundred attendees supporting the youth in the Fairfield County 4-H program. The goal of the board is to generate funds sufficient to endow a 4-H position in Fairfield County and support the 4-H youth development program, allowing the 4-H tradition to continue for generations to come.

“Our county’s 4-H program serves over 3,000 youth and nearly 250 adult volunteers each year through traditional club and school enrichment programming,” said Fairfield County 4-H Extension Educator Leslie Cooksey. “The endowment board works hard to ensure 4-H remains funded in the county for generations to come.”

Business owners and employees, 4-H families, community members and all 4-H supporters are invited to attend the event to support the future of the 4-H program in Fairfield County.

Sponsorships are available as well. For more information, contact: Leland Tinklepaugh at leland.tinklepaugh@e-farmcredit.com.

Click here to view 2024 Legacy Dinner Invite and 2024 Response Card.

Checks can be made payable to one of two funds:

  • 4-H Fairfield County Foundation Fund (Money stays in Fairfield County. No Ohio State University gift credit given)
  • Fairfield County 4-H Endowment. On the check memo line designate: Fund #642082** (Earn Ohio State University gift credit and receive a giving receipt from The Ohio State University)

“4-H camps and trips are great learning experiences for youth and teens,” said Fairfield County 4-H Extension Educator Aubry Fowler. “The endowment board helps to fund many of those life-changing trips for 4-H members each year from interest money alone.”

The 2024 event is to be held at Cheers Chalet at 1211 Coonpath Road NW, Lancaster, OH 43130. Reservations and payment should be mailed to: Fairfield County 4-H Endowment, c/o Laura Johnson, PO Box 564, Lancaster, OH 43130.

To subscribe to updates, visit the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment blog at u.osu.edu/4hlegacy

About the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment
The endowment was created in 2006 to raise funds to support the future of the 4-H program in Fairfield County and endow a position of a 4-H Educator if other funding sources dwindle. The 4-H Endowment consists of two permanent funds made possible through individual donations, business contributions and fundraising events. The 4-H Fairfield County Foundation Fund allows the money to be housed in Fairfield County. (No OSU gift credit given) and the Fairfield County 4-H Endowment is operated by the Ohio State University (Fund #642082). Visit u.osu.edu/4Hlegacy to learn more.

About the Fairfield County 4-H Program
4-H is a non-formal educational, youth development program offered to individuals age 5 and in kindergarten to age 19. The Fairfield County 4-H program was founded in 1920. The program currently reaches more than 3,000 youth each year through traditional club and school enrichment programming – helping kids “learn by doing” through hands-on activities. For more information, visit fairfield.osu.edu.

 

The 4-H Endowment Board is looking for new members to start the year!

The Fairfield County 4-H Endowment Board is committed to supporting the County’s 4-H program in a variety of ways that includes fundraising for needs that are beyond traditional funding resources. Many thanks for the time and effort of our Board members past and present. The Fairfield County 4-H Endowment Board includes up to 25 members who may be 4-H volunteers, 4-H alumni, 4-H members, representatives from business and organizations, and the general public. The Board also includes the Fairfield County 4-H Educators and the County 4-H Advisory Committee President (or their designee).

The 4-H Endowment Board is always looking for new members from the community who wish to get more involved in our long term fundraising efforts of the Fairfield County 4-H Program. Persons interested in volunteering for the Board may complete an application at any time. Upon selection to the Board, the 4-H Endowment President will reach out to you with more information.

4-H Endowment Board Member Application

Board Mission: The purpose of the Board shall be to solicit contributions, gifts, grants, and bequests to be invested through The Ohio State University Endowment and the Fairfield County Foundation, the annual income from which shall be used to provide a sound source of program funding for the 4-H youth and volunteers of the Fairfield County 4-H Youth Development Program. This support may include, but is not limited to, the funding of trips and awards for 4-H members, volunteer leaders, and friends of 4-H; sponsoring seminars and programs; purchasing material and services that will supplement 4-H programming or increase visibility and public support of 4-H in Fairfield County; fundraising activities of the Board or other organizations conducting fundraising to benefit 4-H in Fairfield County; the partial or full funding of professional and administrative staff positions to administer the Fairfield County 4-H Youth Development Program; and other funding for the 4-H youth and volunteers of the Fairfield County 4-H Youth Development Program. For more details please read the 4-H Endowment Brochure.

Expectations: Support the mission of the board, attend meetings, assist with event preparation, work board events. There is no obligation to donate financially to the board’s mission. However, you may incur expenses while volunteering, such as your time and travel, that cannot be reimbursed. If selected to the 4-H Endowment Board, your attendance at board meetings, the annual Legacy Dinner, and awareness breakfast are expectations of all members.