4-H is not just for farm kids; it’s for all kids

To the Editor,

     4-H grows confidence, creativity, curiosity, courage, character and so much more by teaching life skills through hands-on learning. Opportunities in 4-H come from the youths’ willingness to learn by doing and to make the best better.

     Throughout my years in 4-H, from a member to a leader to being the Jones County 4-H Program Coordinator, people have told me 4-H is only for farm kids. 4-H is much more than exhibiting at the county fair! 4-H is pledging your Head to clearer thinking, your Heart to greater loyalty, your Hands to larger service and your Health to better living.

     Help Jones County 4-H celebrate the opportunities for all that 4-H has to offer during National 4-H Week, Oct. 4-10.

     4-H is active in each of Iowa’s 100 county extension districts and empowers youth to reach their full potential through many different types of experiences, including photography, music, woodworking, sewing, archery, communication, clothing, livestock, horticulture, and so much more. Youth have fun while gaining valuable skills in communication and the arts, citizenship and leadership, science, technology, engineering and math, as well as healthy living and personal life management by being involved in 4-H.

     As we celebrate National 4-H Week, it is important to remember that 4-H has opportunities for all youth, whether living on a farm or living in a city.

     In Jones County, more than 430 youth and 100 volunteers are involved in 4-H! Youth in grades kindergarten through third are welcome to join 4-H Clover Kids groups throughout the county. Youth in fourth through 12^th grades are welcome to join a 4-H club in their community. Learn how you can join by visiting our website at www.extension.iastate.edu/jones, call the Extension and Outreach Office at 319-465-3224, or visit us at 800 N. Maple St., Monticello, on the fairgrounds.

Sincerely,

Devan Cress

4-H Program Coordinator

for Jones County