Given all the challenges in the world today, I am so thankful for 4-H. How did I get my start? Ottawa County (northwest Ohio) as a member of the club my dad was a member and advisor for, the Portage Mohawks. As my siblings and I joined 4-H, my mom signed on as a 4-H advisor as well. Taking no less than 7 projects a year, I raised beef breeding, market steers and hogs, and carcass steers and hogs. Additionally, I tried my hand with showing ducks and lambs each one year in addition to a lengthy list of miscellaneous projects ranging from gardening, cooking, and sewing. I was a camp counselor, a Junior Leader, and a Junior Fair Board Member. I loved every moment of it and hoped to purse a degree in Extension Education at Ohio State. I a career in agriculture and education was my goal. After working for the Farm Science Review for 7 years, this position in Fairfield County opened up, and here I am! Thank you for welcoming me into this county and continuing to love the 4-H program and sharing these great opportunities with our youth and volunteers!
What’s your 4-H story?
This organization prepares today’s youth to tackle big challenges. Just as it has done for generations, 4-H teaches children leadership, science and life skills, and how to be good citizens. The youth coming up through 4-H right now are learning and doing amazing things and sharing it with the world around them. Just like it has for our current Junior Fair Queen, Abby Skinner, who will represent Fairfield County in the Ohio Fairs Queen Contest at the Ohio Fair Managers Association Conference next week (good luck Abby!).
I know that 4-H has meant a great deal to you as well. Your gift today will bring the amazing experience of 4-H to even more Ohio youth. Share a favorite 4-H photo, your 4-H story, and this message! Please give today.
