4-H THE POWER OF YOUTH

The Allen County 4-H Program is available to young people from urban, suburban and rural areas in Allen County between the age of 3 to grade 12. There are currently 40 clubs, 1100 youth enrolled in the traditional 4-H program. 21 schools also participate in Classroom Enrichment. It doesn’t matter what your interests are, because there are projects for everyone ranging from aerospace to zoology.

Adult volunteers serve as 4-H leaders. “Volunteers in each and every case are at the core of making 4-H happen,” said 4-H Extension Educator, Michael Talbott. “These adults help guide 4-H members in their work through projects, activities, judging contests, and preparing an exhibit for the fair.” “We can be proud of our youth. Exhibits have grown in sophistication and presentation over the years. I remember trying to fit it all in at the Coliseum.”

Talbott went on to explain how there is an increase in the number of displays and exhibits from schools and also from youth being home schooled. “It adds another whole dimension to our fair,” states Talbott.

“For my home-schooled children,” states 4-H leader, Ann Baxter of the Super Star Club, “this organization really offers them a chance to hold leadership positions and practice some public speaking. It also makes them accountable to one another with their 4-H fair projects.” “4-H has given my children an opportunity to learn some skills that I can’t teach them.” As a mom, what Ann likes best about 4-H is working with a great bunch of people, both parents and kids who like to try new things.

The Allen County 4-H Program is under the direction of the Purdue Extension Service and the Allen County 4-H Clubs, Inc. and their sixteen member Board of Directors.

Are you wondering how you can get involved in this great organization? To locate the 4-H agent serving your area, follow the links from www.four-h.purdue.edu or contact the Purdue Extension Service at 4001 Crescent Ave., Fort Wayne, In 46815 (481-6826).