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COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri 4-H Foundation recently recognized three families with the Missouri 4-H Century Family Award, which celebrates families whose combined years of 4-H membership and volunteer service total 100 years or more, demonstrating a multigenerational commitment to youth leadership, learning and community impact.
2025 Missouri 4-H Century Family Award recipients, all from Vernon County:
- The Forkner-Arch-Carol Family.
- The Graham Family.
- The Pollock Family.
For more than a century, Missouri 4-H has prepared young people to be 4-H Beyond Ready—for college, careers, leadership and life, said Rachel Augustine, senior director of advancement for MU Extension and the Missouri 4-H Foundation. The Century Family Award recognizes families whose dedication as members and volunteers has helped sustain that legacy.
“The award underscores the vital role these families play in advancing the 4-H mission to empower youth with the skills, confidence, character and resilience needed to succeed in life and work,” Augustine said. “Their multigenerational involvement reflects the full circle of 4-H engagement.”
More than recognition, the award invites families to reflect on their shared 4-H journey, celebrating milestones, memories and decades of impact in their communities, she said.
“Each of these families represents generations of leadership, service, and belief in the power of young people,” she added. “Their combined years of membership and volunteer service are a powerful example of what it means to be 4-H Beyond Ready. Because of families like these, Missouri 4-H continues to grow confident, capable leaders who are prepared to make a difference in their communities, their careers and our world.”
More information about the Missouri 4-H Century Family Award.
About Missouri 4-H
Missouri 4-H grows today’s youth and prepares tomorrow’s leaders. With a blend of time-tested traditions and innovative hands-on learning, Missouri youth explore and find their spark in programs ranging from agriculture and conservation to aerospace and career development. Through clubs, programs, camps, in-school and after-school experiences, University of Missouri Extension faculty, staff and thousands of volunteers guide youth in developing essential skills, building confidence and fostering connections. Together, they inspire young people to make a real difference in their communities, their country and the world.
About the Missouri 4-H Foundation
The Missouri 4-H Foundation is the independent philanthropic partner of the University of Missouri Extension 4-H Center for Youth Development. For 75 years, the foundation has secured and managed funds for Missouri 4-H, providing higher education scholarships, recognizing 4-H volunteers and supporting the work of MU Extension 4-H.