By DALE HOGG
Barton County Media Consultant
Recognizing the significant impact 4-H programs have on local youth, the Barton County Commission adopted a proclamation Tuesday morning declaring Oct. 5-11 as National 4-H Week.
Michelle Beran, Cottonwood Extension District family and community wellness agent for Barton County, along with four 4-H ambassadors and the new 4-H agent Ben Sims, presented the proclamation to the commissioners. It highlighted 4-H as America's largest youth development organization, connecting millions of young people, educators, volunteers, and alumni across the United States.
Beran let the youth with her do most of the speaking.
Melody Braddy of Hoisington, a delegate to the National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C., highlighted the opportunity to be a part of the Kansas Youth Leadership Forum (KYLF) and the national conference, where delegates presented on issues like youth mental health.
“This is my favorite because you get to meet youth from all over the state, who are there because they want to be there and they want to learn about leadership," she said.
Praising the diverse project opportunities, Samantha Negaard of Great Bend said her favorite part about being in 4-H is the performing arts. “These easily transfer to school activities and has helped with public speaking and confidence.”
D.J. Wyant of Hoisington, a member of the junior leaders and ambassador program, said he enjoys 4-H for its public service activities and for improving his public speaking and leadership skills.
They can even earn national honors, said Russell Kern of Ellinwood. His favorite project is foods and nutrition, which has helped him win national awards and scholarships. He was recently named the Youth Educator of the Year by the Home Bakers Association.
The commission recognized the importance of 4-H's four core values — Head, Heart, Hands, and Health — which help youth “become beyond ready” for future challenges. The program, delivered by the Cooperative Extension, aims to turn participants into leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries by encouraging them to tackle critical societal issues.
The commissioners voted to adopt the proclamation, formally encouraging all citizens to recognize 4-H for its continued role in empowering youth to “learn by doing” and make a positive impact on their communities.
“4-H is very near and dear to my heart,” said Commission Chairperson Tricia Schlessiger, District 4, noting her kids take part in the program. “The focus is on the fair, but there is learning that takes place throughout the year.”
“This is something that will carry you through life,” said Commissioner Barb Esfeld, District 2, of the lessons learned. “There is so much you can do (in 4-H). I am proud of you guys.”
Beran said the new 4-H year is set to begin Oct. 1 for nearly 150 members across seven community clubs in Barton County, following the conclusion of the Kansas State Fair. The county's 4-H program offers 50 projects covering areas such as communication, leadership, citizenship, and career options.
She said 4-H involves much more than the annual Barton County Fair, which is managed in partnership with the Fair Association. The 4-H Holding Board continues to manage and maintain the 4-H educational buildings, which are used for club meetings, day camps, and archery practice.
Beran also introduced Sims as the new 4-H agent, joining the extension office after three years as an agriculture and 4-H agent in Greenwood County. He said his wife is from Wilson and that is why they wanted to relocate to this area.
The two noted a slow but positive trend in enrollment, with the state pushing for a 10% increase in membership over the next five years. They acknowledged that balancing 4-H with other activities is a challenge for families.
The agents said the local program is seeking project leaders and volunteers, who must follow a registration process for risk management. Volunteers are needed for single events, like County Club Days in February, or for longer-term project guidance.
Project records will be evaluated Oct. 6 in Rice County with six other counties.
The Cottonwood Extension District covers Barton and Ellis counties.