Youth are taught well by 4-H

As we countdown to the NV150Fair in Carson City, we want to honor the kids who make the fair so special. These are the kids who raise the animals so lovingly, yet are willing to release them for sale. These are the kids now bringing attention to the farm-to-table movement and are learning the value of a job well done.

As the late Whitney Houston sang, “I believe children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way.”

4-H clubs were formed to teach our children the importance of agriculture and to learn new ways to better farm or raise their animals.

The first agricultural after school youth club was formed in 1902 in Clark County, Ohio and by 1912, these programs became known as 4-H clubs and have grown nationally by leaps and bounds.

In 1914, the United States Department of Agriculture created the Cooperative Extension System and nationalized 4-H. Today, 109 land-grant universities across the nation offer extension services in more than 3,000 county offices. The familiar clover emblem was adopted in 1924.

Northern Nevada has active 4-H clubs through the University of Nevada Extension Center and led by volunteers trained and supported by the Extension staff.

Within the Carson City/Storey County district, club members can learn first-aid, earn a babysitting certificate and learn to speak in public. They can join an archery club, learn how to handle a shotgun properly, care for dogs and sew creatively. They can learn how to raise bouncing bunnies, livestock and poultry. They can ride horses, ski and snowboard, discover science and hug a bug.

The 4-H mission is to empower youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults. The vision is to encourage a world in which youth and adults learn, grow and work together as catalysts for positive change. Participation in 4-H is a great way to keep the kids engaged while meeting other kids with the same interests.

To learn more about regional 4-H clubs, log on to www.unce.unr.edu/counties. Find them on Facebook at Carson City/Storey County, NV 4-H. Or contact Jim Barcellos or Sandy Wallin at 887-2252 in Carson City.

Come to the Fair to see these wonderful kids and their animals on Thursday, July 31 through Aug. 3rd. The ribbon cutting is July 31 at 11 a.m. with various dignitaries including Gov. Brian Sandoval. Admittance to most events is free. The complete Fair schedule can be found at www.nv150fair.com.