Hello All Volunteers, 4-H Youth, and Extension,

It is hard to believe that a year has come and gone! With the dropping temperatures and winter weather, please be mindful when working outdoors with youth. It is important to dress appropriately and be aware of changing conditions.

It was great to see so many people at the recognition banquet. The Corning Yankees did a fantastic job with dinner and were able to move us all through in a timely manner. Thank you so much! Sue Kunkel was once again our auctioneer at the dessert auction. The auction is a fun and entertaining way to support the 4-H Leaders Association. The desserts were truly delicious. I am always amazed at the creativity put into the deserts!

At the Annual Association meeting in November we listened to a presentation by the UW extension, which was very informative. Several 4-H delegates provided us with presentations of their trips from this past year. It is truly wonderful to see these youth present what they experienced and provide the rest of us with a glimpse of their trip. The presentations not only allow them to creatively display their journey, but it also allows them to practice communication skills which will help them throughout their lives.

As the New Year begins, please consider volunteering. There are so many areas of 4-H that need active membership. In today’s society it is easy to fill our time, make it meaningful. The core values of 4-H can be better achieved when people are engaged. We get out what we put in, and that goes for anything in our lives. Let me share with you some statistics:

4-H’ers are 4X more likely to give back to their communities
4-H’ers are 2X more likely to make healthier choices
4-H’ers are 2X more likely to participate in STEM activities

Wishing you a warm and enjoyable Holiday Season!

Chad Lashua
4-H Leaders’ Association President