County 4-H celebrates volunteers during National Volunteer Week

Each year, thousands of volunteers in Minnesota donate their time and energy to make their communities a better place to live. These volunteers will be among the millions across the country who will be spotlighted during National Volunteer Week, April 21-27, 2024.

 

One group that relies heavily on volunteers is the University of Minnesota Extension’s 4-H Youth Development Program. During National Volunteer Week and every week throughout 2024, Minnesota 4-H celebrates and appreciates its more than 7,500 volunteers - each one critical to the success of 4-H programs and making a difference in the lives of youth. In Waseca County

 

4-H, 70 volunteers serve as club leaders, project leaders, committee members and in advisory capacities for the 4-H Youth Development Program. Research shows that Minnesota 4-H volunteers help youth gain leadership skills, serve their communities, improve their

decision-making skills and develop career readiness.

 

Missy Eaton, an eight-year Waseca County 4-H volunteer, volunteers for 4-H because she “believes 4-H is a great program. I learned a lot as a youth participating in 4H and want to give those benefits to other kids. I really enjoy watching the kids learn by doing.” She encourages all adults to volunteer with 4-H because, “Adults should always stand behind our next generation and be a part of making them better than ourselves!” What better way to do that than by giving your time and energy to a youth program, like 4-H.

 

The work of 4-H volunteers is continuous. Every day volunteers lend a helping hand to make 4-H programs more beneficial to the residents of Waseca County. Those interested in joining the team of 4-H volunteers are invited to contact the University of Minnesota Extension - Waseca County 4-H at 507-835-0600, mnext-waseca@umn.edu, or visit the website at www.extension.umn.edu/Waseca.