October 6-12 is an exciting time as 4-H families across the nation celebrate National 4-H Week! Per the National 4-H website, 4-H was established as Youth Clubs in 1902 with agricultural after-school clubs focused on particular ag products such as tomatoes or corn. In 1912, these groups were referred to as 4-H Clubs in recognition of the clover pin developed in 1910. The passage of the Smith-Lever Act in 1914 created the Cooperative Extension System at USDA and nationalized 4-H. By 1914, 4-H Clubs were formed and the clover emblem was adopted. The Cooperative Extension System is a partnership of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture within the USDA, more than 100 land-grant universities and more than 3,000 county offices across the nation, including all 105 counties in Kansas. Cooperative Extension combines the expertise and resources of federal, state, and local governments to meet the need for research, knowledge, and educational programs. In 4-H, we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us.
On Oct. 1, I will be joined by a few of our 4-H Ambassadors to address the Barton County Commission. We were delighted that they will consider a proclamation to state “4-H, as delivered by area Cooperative Extension agencies, has helped thousands of youth become true leaders, entrepreneurs and visionaries. By declaring Oct. 6 – 12, 2024, as National 4-H Week, the Commission recognizes the importance of using the Head, Heart, Hands and Health, the four core values of the 4-H mission, to become beyond ready.”
If you know of a young person who would benefit from the opportunities of 4-H, enrollment for the new year begins Oct. 1. The Cottonwood Extension District offers seven community clubs in Barton County and over 45 project areas from Art to Woodworking for youth to explore, learn, and grow. More information can be found at our website cottonwood.k-state.edu or by calling one of our offices.
If you happen to be in our Ellis County area, 4-H members will have several displays at the Hays Art Council and they are hosting other activities!
Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent for the Cottonwood District, Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth and Development related questions email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.
