03/21/2015
Help support these 4-H kids!!!!
Today’s youth are the future of America. It is the children of our current society that will one day be our nurses, farmers, politicians, and teachers. Investing in young people is not something Fort Scott, Kansas takes lightly. It is here in rural Southeast, Kansas that one will find some of the most kind-hearted, committed, and passionate individuals. Each person living in our community desires to see children succeed. Being in a high poverty area, this can sometimes be challenging. Fort Scott, as a community, has dedicated many hours to improving the lives of young people through the implementation of group activities, sports teams, and recreational parks. Many members of the community have committed themselves to volunteering with 4-H, a youth organization focused on teaching youth vital life skills such as responsibility and self discipline all while allowing them to engage in activities tailored to their personal interests. You don’t have to live on a farm to be in 4-H either. It is for anyone 7-18 years of age. 4-H engages youth in a wide array of projects ranging from making crafts to showing livestock. Additionally, members of 4-H have traveled across America learning crucial leadership skills and creating friendships, both of which they will carry with them throughout their lives. A particularly fabulous aspect to this organization is the requirement for family involvement. Too often we see families running in different directions to their activities. 4-H is entirely different, as the entire family is able to take part in this adventure. Did you know that 4-H’ers are four times more likely to make contributions to their communities; two times more likely to be civically active and two times more likely to make healthier choices. Unfortunately, limited funds have the ability to impact the number of opportunities children have within the organization. I would like to see one local 4-H club, The Barnstormers, receive this award to ensure that current and future members will be able to embark on the countless opportunities that 4-H provides. After all, America could use a few more well-rounded, community oriented individuals to carry on this beautiful country. Thank you!