COLUMBIA, Mo. – Gov. Mike Parson designated Oct. 6-12 as 4-H Week in Missouri.

Missouri and Missouri 4-H proudly join millions across the nation in celebrating National 4-H Week, an annual event that highlights the positive impact of 4-H on youth development.

This year’s theme, “Beyond Ready,” celebrates the dedication of youths, families, volunteers and alumni who contribute to the growth and success of 4-H programs.

On Sept. 30, Parson hosted a group of 4-H’ers in his office to present the proclamation: State 4-H Council representatives Aubrey Suter, Owen Isdell, Alana Kimmons and Bella Baker and civic engagement ambassador Maleah Hogan. They were accompanied by civic engagement adviser Sage Eichenburch and Megan Kershner, State 4-H Council coordinator. The youths shared their experiences in 4-H, reflecting on how the program has shaped their personal growth and leadership skills. Parson acknowledged the importance of their roles as examples for younger members, emphasizing how their involvement inspires others and strengthens the 4-H community.

“We are thrilled to showcase the incredible achievements of our youth members,” says Lupita Fabregas, University of Missouri Extension senior program director of Missouri 4-H. “We are a close-knit community united by our commitment to personal growth, leadership, and positive change.”

Fabregas encourages every member and volunteer to embrace the spirit of National 4-H Week by sharing their experiences and inviting others to join the 4-H community. With a diverse range of projects and flexible delivery methods, Missouri 4-H ensures that there is an opportunity for every young person to engage and grow through 4-H.

Missouri 4-H believes in the potential of all youths and strives to let their talents flourish, she said. Through educational opportunities, mentorship and service-learning projects, 4-H empowers young people to discover their passions, build confidence and develop resilience.

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. To learn more about Missouri 4-H, visit 4h.missouri.edu.

Photo

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/20241007-4h-week-1.jpg

Missouri 4-H representatives receive Gov. Mike Parson’s 2024 4-H Week proclamation. Pictured, from left: Megan Kershner, Owen Isdell, Aubrey Suter, Alana Kimmons, Gov. Parson, Bella Baker, Maleah Hogan and Sage Eichenburch.