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A 4-H volunteer helps 4-H’ers make extension cords at Camp Cloverpoint.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Missouri 4-H recognizes the dedication of more than 5,800 volunteers who invest time and energy to mentor and guide young people.
Thanks to their commitment, Missouri 4-H youth are ready for leadership, careers and life, said Tim Tanner, senior director of Missouri 4-H, a program of University of Missouri Extension.
National Volunteer Appreciation Week, observed April 19-25, is the perfect time to celebrate the incredible contributions of 4-H volunteers.
Related story: MU Extension salutes its volunteers
From leading clubs and teaching hands-on skills to supporting county fairs, judging contests and mentoring young people, 4-H volunteers play an invaluable role in youth development, Tanner said. Every hour a volunteer gives directly contributes to equipping young people with lifelong skills that prepare them for future success.
In the past year alone, Missouri 4-H volunteers donated more than 626,900 hours of service, a contribution valued at $21.8 million to Missouri communities. Their dedication ensures that young people across the state have access to opportunities that shape their futures, Tanner said.
“We are deeply grateful for our volunteers, who play a vital role in helping youth become Beyond Ready,” he said. “Through their time, talents and mentorship, they empower young people to grow into capable leaders who are prepared for the future and committed to their communities.”
To honor the exceptional service of 4-H volunteers, Missouri 4-H presents the Frank Graham Volunteer Leadership Award and the Naomi Crouch 4-H Volunteer Leadership Award. Funding for these awards is made possible by the Missouri 4-H Foundation.
“Recognizing our volunteers is one of the most meaningful ways we celebrate the impact of 4-H,” said Rachel Augustine, senior director of advancement for MU Extension and the Missouri 4-H Foundation. “Through the generosity of our donors, we are proud to support these awards and honor the individuals and organizations who help ensure Missouri youth are truly ‘Beyond Ready.’”
The Naomi Crouch 4-H Volunteer Leadership Award recognizes outstanding volunteers and organizations for notable impact on a county or regional 4-H program. Named in honor of Naomi Mohler Crouch, a dedicated advocate for Missouri 4-H, this award celebrates those who continue her legacy of service. Two individuals and one organization are selected for this award, and a $250 monetary award will be presented to a 4-H county or club in their honor.
This year’s honorees:
- Nathan Forkner, Vernon County.
- Deidre Weldon, Macon County.
- Johnson County Cattlemen’s Association, Johnson County.
The Frank Graham 4-H Volunteer Leadership Award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to a 4-H club or countywide 4-H program. This award recognizes volunteers, educators and supporters whose leadership and dedication have had a lasting impact on 4-H youth development. One honoree per region is selected and a $100 monetary award will be presented to a 4-H county or club in their honor.
This year’s honorees:
- Amanda Aufdenburg, Cape Girardeau County, Southeast Region.
- Julia Bartlett, Platte County, Urban West Region.
- Rebekah (Becky) Bruce, Vernon County, West Central Region.
- Sarah Calvin, Jasper County, Southwest Region.
- Denise Dent, Warren County, East Central Region.
- Karen Hamm, Ray County, Northwest Region.
- Justin & Holly Hoffman, Lewis County, Northeast Region.
- Jim Mellor, St. Charles County, Urban East Region.
Missouri 4-H encourages more adults to step up and support 4-H, helping ensure that youths across the state continue to benefit from transformative experiences. Learn more about becoming a 4-H volunteer.
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.
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A 4-H volunteer helps 4-H’ers make extension cords at Camp Cloverpoint.
