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Elizabeth Hanson and Daulton Corbett pictured with members of the Pike County Commission
after raising funds to pay for welcome signs for Pike County 4-H on October 8, 2014.
By Guest Columnist Elizabeth Hanson
ZEBULON - In honor of National 4-H week October 4-11, I’d like to tell you about this superb organization. 4-H is the nations largest youth development and empowerment organization. Supported by university-backed curriculum, 4-Hers engage in hands on learning activities in the areas of science, healthy living and citizenship. 4-H helps teach children from 5th to 12th grade skills that they can use for the rest of their lives. I’ve learned to develop skills in leadership, teamwork and public speaking, as well as how to be respectful and give back to the community. This is what you would tell an adult if they wanted to know what 4-H is. But, to a 4-H’er, 4-H is an organization that allows people to be themselves and make new life-long friends while learning more about everything from trees, chickens, and wildlife to good shopping skills! We are not all farmers, and you don’t have to grow any fruits or vegetables to be part of 4-H. You just have to be yourself and be willing to try new things. As a result of 4-H I have taken a journey through numerous project areas, activities, and events which I would otherwise not had the opportunity to experience. Participation in 4-H has really changed who I am as well as how I see myself and the world. I have learned alot through 4-H about civic engagement, community service, and most importantly-myself.
The 4-H study at Tufts University on Positive Youth Development shows that 4-H youth excel beyond their peers. Youth engaged in 4-H programs are nearly two times more likely to get better grades in school, two times more likely to be civically active, two times more likely to make healthier choices, and 41% less likely to engage in risky behavior.
4-H has equipped me with the leadership skills that I need to succeed in and out of the organization. I want to thank all the many 4-H leaders and volunteers and that have encouraged me to work harder, try new things and excel in all that I put my mind to. Lastly, I want to ask my fellow peers to get involved in 4-H. I have had so many awesome opportunities. I believe that the same opportunities I have had can also be apart of your future in 4-H. Happy National 4-H Week!