For more than 100 years, Kansas 4-H has relied on the generosity of volunteers in delivering 4-H to Kansas youth. Thousands of caring adults shared their time, knowledge and effort to learn alongside youth and help them find their sparks. These generous adults have recognized the value of investing in youth and the rewards it brings to the youth, to their communities, and to themselves! Later in this issue, readers will learn about a few of the thousands of volunteers that are part of this process.
At the Kansas 4-H Foundation, we believe in teaching youth the importance of generosity. As a part of their 4-H experience, caring adults model what generosity looks like throughout their interactions with youth. April was National Volunteer Month, and we are celebrated more than 10,000 youth and adults who give their time as part of 4-H. Volunteering is a key way of investing in your community, making the best better, as we say in 4-H.
4-H members across the state support Kansas 4-H in a variety of ways. 5,000 youth volunteer in leading younger 4-H members. The broad range of ages in 4-H provides leadership, service, and mentoring opportunities for older youth. Members and their 4-H clubs engage philanthropically and are recognized as Gavel Club members. Through Gavel Club, youth learn about the importance of giving back and the significant impact philanthropy makes when we all come together. In the midst of a pandemic, more than 150 clubs raised more than $50,000 in support of the Endorse the Course Campaign.
We thrive on philanthropy and volunteers in all that we do to provide immersive experiences, foster innovation and enhance accessibility.
It’s never too late to get involved and volunteer or give back to your community. Volunteering isn’t a long-term commitment either.
You can pick your level of engagement, and I encourage you to connect with local extension professionals and get engaged today!
-Jake Worcester, President/CEO of the Kansas 4-H Foundation