Commissioners recognize growth of 4-H in Hancock County
Trending
NEW CUMBERLAND - Hancock County's 4-H programs have experienced much growth in recent years, with new clubs being established and attracting a larger number of participants to their annual summer camps and other activities.
The Hancock County Commission on Friday recognized the growth and contributions of local participants, by declaring Oct. 4-10 as National 4-H Week in the county.
"I think you do a great job," noted Commissioner Paul Cowey, addressing Zach White, the WVU Extension Agent for Hancock County, who oversees the county 4-H programs, as well as 20 4-H members and volunteers who attended Friday's commission meeting. "I hope you continue your good work."
Cowey said he had an opportunity to stop by this year's summer camp, held at Tomlinson Run State Park, and watch some of the activities.
"We've had a very busy year, so far, with 4-H," White said, giving credit to the 4-H members and volunteers for the growth and full schedule.
Kairi Thornburg, 4-H teen leader president and two-time national delegate, also offered some thoughts.
"4-H has changed the lives of so many of the 4-Hers here in this room," she said. "I've gotten to watch so many of the young members here grow and serve in so many different ways, and I can truly say that 4-H is one of the greatest aspects that we have in this community."
Hancock County's camp brought in more than 60 youth this summer, providing a week full of activities, and the clubs, distributed throughout the community organize a variety of activities at other points in the calendar.
"We have the honor of being able to serve the community throughout the year," she said.
Thornburg would later be asked to read the proclamation, which was approved unanimously by the commission.
The proclamation notes 4-H as the largest youth development organization in the nation, with more than 6 million participants across the country. In West Virginia, the proclamation notes, one in every five youth are involved with 4-H, while in Hancock County more than 1,400 youth experienced some aspect of the program, whether through attending the summer camp program, community events, taking part in various in-school outreach and enrichment programs, or regular club activities. There are more than 70 adult volunteers assisting with the programs in Hancock County, the proclamation notes.
"Congratulations on the growth you've experienced the last few years," Commission President Eron Chek said. "You're reaching a lot more families, and that's a wonderful thing."
(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com)