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In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Arlys Cupp is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 4. Arlys volunteers with the Chase County 4-H program and was nominated by Debbie Kuenning, Nebraska Extension Educator in Chase and Perkins Counties.

Arlys Cupp has served as a 4-H leader for over 30 years! She leads both the Challengers 4-H Club and an afterschool Aerospace Club, helping youth build and launch rockets. Arlys is a youth-focused leader. She values the learning opportunities 4-H provides and is constantly looking for ways to increase engagement. Regardless of the project, Arlys is always ready to help. She can be found helping youth work with their market steer, overseeing the county Rocket Shoot, or advising youth on their Public Service Announcements. Arlys also works to instill pride in the community through annual community service and fair beautification projects. 

"With so much experience, Arlys has plenty to teach about 4-H, but she is constantly seeking to learn and try new things in the program," wrote Kuenning. "Always looking for new experiences or opportunities to inspire the youth she works with."

Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in Chase County. I attended a country school and have loved everything agriculture all my life. I was a member of the Silver Spurs 4-H Club when I was a child. I have been an elementary teacher in Chase County for 38 years. It is my pleasure to help with our school's jr. high FFA program. I also enjoy being a part of the Champion Jr. Women's Club and doing community service.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

I have always looked forward to helping our youth find their passion, setting achievable goals, and then do their best to meet their goal.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

I have more memories than I can count. One of those is watching first-time rocket builders launch their rockets for the first time. When they count down, hit the ignitor button, and the rocket launches, the look on their face is priceless. Many memories were also made while traveling with 45 youth on the CWF trip. 16 days on a bus with them were very special, and lots of memories were made. I was fortunate enough to get to do this twice when my own children went on the trip.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

Spending the year looking for ideas to help kids explore projects and careers is rewarding and fun. 4-H offers so many opportunities, from baking to livestock, fishing to robotics, gardening to safety, and so much more. Who couldn't find something to be interested in?

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Alan and Kaye Mussman are receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 10. Alan and Kaye volunteer with the Thayer County 4-H program and were nominated by Tammy Johnson, Nebraska Extension Office Manager in Thayer County.

"Kaye and Alan are a team!" said Johnson.

Kaye worked as the Thayer County 4-H Aide for 15 years. During that time, her husband Alan volunteered to support whatever Kaye worked on. He assisted with workshops, camps, and trips. He helped secure materials for projects and shop for supplies. He donated shop space, worked with youth, and built parade floats and office cabinets. Alan was always up for any new task that was asked of him, even if it required learning a new skill or purchasing a new tool to make something work.

During her time with Extension, Kaye worked diligently to build up the Quilts of Valor program. She worked with the Founders to sponsor sewing days, where the youth worked all day making quilt tops. Kaye found helpers and sponsors to assist in the quilting process to keep costs minimal. She went to all the local schools teaching sewing, cooking, crafting, and woodworking through classroom engagement and afterschool programming. Kaye was integral to the Quilts of Valor display and presentation during the Nebraska State Fair. She also helped with the Fashion Show at the State Fair. Kaye and Alan have sponsored several CWF trips and chaperoned youth during these civic engagement trips to Washington, DC. 

Though her time as a Nebraska Extension employee is behind her, Kaye still volunteers at workshops, serves as a 4-H Camp Sponsor and Instructor, and coordinates community service projects at Camp Jefferson. She continues to support youth interested in quilting and sewing through guidance and by providing her equipment and home to those in need. Kaye still advocates for 4-H throughout the community. 

"This couple has gone over and above on so many levels!" wrote Johnson. 

Tell us about yourselves.

We have been happily married since 1980, living on our family farm near Alexandria and farming and ranching on the family farms in Thayer, Fillmore, and Saline counties. Together, we raised two wonderful daughters, Dena (Evan) and Leah (Ty), who have given them three beautiful granddaughters named McKinley, Sophie, and Ivy.

Throughout our many years together, we have also dedicated a great deal of our time to volunteering for various causes in our community, including church youth groups, Girl Scouts, and 4-H. We have been involved with 4-H since 2008. We have shared our love of woodworking, quilting, camping, and other activities with hundreds of young people in the community.

In our free time, we enjoy kayaking, camping, quilting, crafting, traveling, and most of all, spending time with our family and friends. We are always eager to share our love of life and adventure with others.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer roles?

We are passionate about our work with youth and are always looking for new and creative ways to educate and engage with them. We also enjoy getting to know the kids on a personal level and finding ways to connect with them, oftentimes developing strong relationships with many of the kids for years to come as they continue to grow into adults and leaders in the community.

What are your favorite memories as 4-H volunteers?

Alan: My favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer was inviting local youth to visit the woodshop on our family farm to work on woodworking projects.

Kaye: My favorite memory was working with local youth to work on quilt projects, which is a hobby close to my heart.

We enjoyed watching as the youth learned to use the woodworking tools and sewing machines with caution and skill, taking pride in their creations.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

We find great satisfaction sharing our knowledge on a topic with local kids. We assist the kids by demonstrating technique, answering questions, providing advice, and helping the young people with their projects, then watching the kids' develop new skills and confidence. We love seeing the kids' faces light up when they accomplish something they had never done before.

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Chelsea Sallach is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 2. She volunteers with the Wheeler County 4-H program and was nominated by Jen Epp, Nebraska Extension Educator in Garfield, Loup, and Wheeler Counties.

As a member, Chelsea discovered her spark in the 4-H horse project. As an adult, she is paying it forward as a volunteer leader.

"Chelsea Sallach has been a breath of fresh air in the Wheeler County 4-H horse project," wrote Epp.

Wheeler County has strong ties with the equine industry, and community members of all ages love their horses. Despite all of this, local youth seemed reluctant to participate in the county 4-H horse shows. With equine expertise, Chelsea stepped up to lead practice sessions. She prioritized a growth mindset and skill-building to help youth develop self-confidence. The practices were not only impactful, but they also became increasingly popular. As a result, participation in last year's local 4-H horse show doubled. 

"As an emerging volunteer, she has added richness for the youth and the project at the county level," wrote Epp. "We are excited to watch her take these youth to new heights in the future."

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Chelsea Sallach, and I am from Ewing, NE. I live on a ranch with my husband, Craig, and our 4 kids - Owen (10), Warren (9), Quincy (6), and Hazel (4). Growing up, I was a lifelong member of 4-H and participated in the horse project. I enjoyed showing horses and rodeoing, as well as any opportunity to learn about training horses. In college at UNL, I showed horses on the IHSA Equestrian Team and judged for the UNL Horse Judging team while earning a Bachelor of Science - Animal Science with Equine Emphasis. I recently earned my Master of Education - Special Education and enjoy teaching high school science and elementary special education.

Since college, I have become a certified 4-H horse judge in Nebraska and have continued to judge 4-H and open horse shows. When my kids started 4-H, I saw another opportunity to share my love and knowledge of horses with kids who were eager to learn. I began volunteering with the Ericson Wranglers 4-H club as a horse project leader, which has grown into the opportunity to help all youth in our county with their 4-H horse projects.

When I am not teaching, judging, or volunteering with 4-H, you will likely find me outside on the ranch! I enjoy riding and training young horses, helping my husband on the ranch, and spending time with my kids.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

I love the opportunity to see kids working hard, developing friendships, and building lifelong skills. Their dedication and persistence to learning and growing, along with the joy they share through the process, is a testament to the bright future of these young people.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

I don't have one favorite memory - I have many, many favorites! Seeing kids find success, especially when they have worked so hard, is incredibly rewarding. Those moments when they connect with their horse, conquer a fear, or master a new skill, always bring a smile to my face.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

I help youth find their spark through 4-H by providing them opportunities to learn and grow in an environment where mistakes are just steps to improving. I challenge them to try things out of their comfort zone and to have ownership of their own success. I share my love and knowledge of horses with the hopes that they will also find a lifelong passion while developing their skills.

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Chris Redding is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 5. Chris volunteers with the Antelope County 4-H program and was nominated by Jane Schuchardt.

Following in the footsteps of her grandmother and mother, Chris Redding serves as a club leader for the Way Out West 4-H Club. In the early years, the club had about 25 members, and now, with the popularity of chicken and rabbit projects on the rapid rise, membership in 2022 was 54 youth. The club draws in members from across Antelope and nearby counties.

"Chris is so humble," wrote Schuchardt. "I have never met a volunteer so passionate, committed, caring, and generous of her precious time. Chris is completely deserving of this recognition."

Consistent with the 4-H approach to learning, Chris Redding is all hands-on for members of the Way Out West 4-H Club. Backed by this supportive and encouraging adult leader, members always are front and center leading meetings, even if it takes a little nudging, guidance, and confidence building. As a leader, Chris prioritizes community service and encourages all members to participate in the club's project. In cooperation with the Nebraska Department of Transportation, the club picks up trash along a four-mile stretch of Highway 70 west of Elgin several times a year. Chris also has membership heavily involved at the Antelope County Fair, often going on to the Nebraska State Fair and other competitive events. As a reward for all their hard work throughout the year, Chris also organizes fun activities for club members, such as tanking down a river. 

Tell us about yourself.

I now live on the same farm I grew up on in rural Antelope County, west of Elgin. I was that shy, awkward kid, and my mom wisely got me involved in 4-H as she was already a 4-H leader. My summers were all about 4-H - cooking/baking/sewing/decorating my room. I also did home ec judging and got to go to the State Fair in that event! That was a big deal to this shy, naive farm girl. I went to the University of Nebraska School of Technical Agriculture in the Veterinary Technician program. After graduation, I moved to Montana and worked in a veterinary clinic there, met and married my husband Jim. In Montana, I was a 4-H leader for a small group of girls interested in veterinary science. In 1985 we moved back to my hometown to farm and ranch with my parents and started our family. As our daughters became 4-H age, my husband and I wanted them to have the 4-H experience, as my husband had also grown up in the 4-H program, so along with a friend/neighbor Merry Sprout we started the Way Out West 4-H club in 1996. When Merry's kids aged out of 4-H, she decided to retire as a leader, and another friend's grandkids were becoming 4-H age, so Karin Kinney became my co-leader. This is most certainly not a one-person show; I have had great co-leaders, a supportive family (my husband and daughter are leathercraft leaders), and great 4-H'ers, parents, and families!

Outside of 4-H, I am in my 17th year working part-time for Town and Country Veterinary Clinic in Elgin, groom dogs part-time, help with the farm/ranch, am an active member of Park Congregational United Church of Christ, and enjoy gardening and my favorite past time - quilting.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

I enjoy the kids, watching them grow from a (sometimes!) shy, maybe awkward young person into a smart, confident, capable young adult.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

I have some second-generation members in our club; I love that!

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

By encouraging and supporting them, helping them discover new interests and skills, and engage in their community through community service activities

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Kristina Woods is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 10. Kristina volunteers with the Fillmore County 4-H program and was nominated by Alexis Schmidt, Nebraska Extension Assistant in Fillmore County.

Kristina has developed Fillmore County’s first ever robotics program. Fillmore County 4-H was able to have two robotics teams compete at regionals and state for First Lego League this spring due to the countless hours and passion she shared with the youth. Kristina opened her schedule to allow all youth the opportunity to work outside of meeting times. She had great patience when working with youth who needed more help to understand the task at hand. Kristina has a burning passion to provide great opportunities for these 4-Hers which will not only make an impact on the local level but on the state level as well.

Kristina took a spark her daughter developed with robotics. She researched, learned, and implemented Fillmore County’s first robotic teams in 2022. Kristina spent countless hours planning the best way for all team members to understand the First Lego League competition. She is continuing to help youth find their spark by implementing rocketry and other STEM activities into club meetings.

Tell us about yourself.

My significant other and I have a Lawn Service in Geneva. Our daughter who is ten showed interest in the First Lego League Robotics program after completing her yearly 4H static projects. So that embarked us on a great adventure. We went to Rebel Robotics camp at the extension office in Omaha. Their generosity as well as the Busy Bee team being gracious and allowing her to join in with their team during camp, is what sparked our journey. From there we grew the teams and with the help of so many people, parents, local people donating, and the generosity of the Fillmore County Foundation and Earl and Jessie Wilkins Fund we are embarking into new phases including Rocketry and First Tech Challenge Robotics. Without the parents we wouldnt have achieved what we have done. I was very ill for a couple of years and during that time so many people reached out and helped my family in so many ways. So my hope is the Fillmore County Steam Punks Club will be my contribution back to the community. Hoping that every kid that participates in our club or joins us in an activity has fun and feels that they belong while learning a science based concept. That they will be able to build friendships and concepts that will further their lives in a positive way. I get so much back personally from the youth that I sometimes wonder who is getting more. Seeing the variety of disabilities such as autism, adhd, depression and children without all work together and realize the value of the relationships has been so heart warming to see and has motivated me to try and provide as many opportunities as I can to them. (I dont do pictures often so i dont have many if these dont work let me know)

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Seeing the kids be truly excited to be there

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

I have to say that during a competition one of our teams chose letting each team member to participate in the competition and risked not getting their maximum points. To see them choose being kind was amazing and when they did that they actually did better than in the previous round. Parents/mentors gave them their options then they sat in a circle and decided was wonderful to see.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

For our club I really try to take the science based projects that they provide and pair that with as many experts and future mentors I can. Im more of a conduit to see whats out in the world. So that, as they grow they dream big. And ive heard from other volunteers, provide Pizza, so all of us parents provide food on club meeting nights that seems to spark something too!

Congratulations to Allen Vynhalek, who retires this month after a long career serving the agricultural community through extension in Nebraska and Iowa. (Photo courtesy IANR News) This month, Vyhnalek closes out 22 years as an extension educator in Nebraska, where he is well-known for his expertise in farm and ranch succession. 

Martha Mamo, chair and John E. Weaver Professor of Agronomy and Horticulture. (Photo by Craig Chandler, University Communication) Learn more about how the UNL Department of Agronomy and Horticulture is supporting and advancing the state of agriculture in Nebraska.

The site of this new study is the Barta Brothers Ranch, located about 20 miles south of Long Pine in Rock and Brown counties in Nebraska. First-year results of the study concluded that burn/graze systems can increase a producer's profitability while also controlling invasive eastern red cedar encroachment.

Historical crop progress data for Nebraska is available at USDA. As of April 2, oat planting had begun in Nebraska, and winter wheat condition remained steady.

Stephenson's research through Nebraska Extension in grazing livestock distribution, targeted grazing, social association dynamics within cattle herds, and rangeland resilience on private ranches is cutting-edge and has placed him in a leadership position in foraging ecology.

Historical prospective plantings data for Nebraska is available at USDA. According to survey results, Nebraska winter wheat acreage is expected to increase by 17% in 2023, soybeans will remain unchanged, and corn acreage will be slightly down from 2022.

Historical grain stock data for Nebraska is available at USDA. All Nebraska grain stocks as of March 1 were down considerably from 2022, with the greatest deficit in barley at 59% down, followed by sorghum, 51%.

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Keith Umstead is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 6. Keith volunteers with the Nance County 4-H program and was nominated by Steve Pritchard, Nebraska Extension Educator in Boone and Nance Counties.

"As the local 4-H Educator in Boone County, I have known Keith for four years, and he portrays the true spirit of 4-H volunteerism," wrote Pritchard. "He has been very dedicated to the 4-H program in Nance County."

Keith currently serves as the Nance County 4-H Council president, serving on various committees. He has given a tremendous amount of time to see that county fair, workshops, and other 4-H events are well-organized, and he does it all with a smile. Keith is also the club leader for the local Hot Shots 4-H Club. Keith is a Level 1, Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor with multiple discipline certifications. Typically, he runs a 6-8 week program during the winter and another 6-8 week program during the summer. As a certified instructor, Keith has taught hundreds of young people the safe and responsible use of firearms, sound decision-making, self-discipline, and concentration. Keith has a passion for helping youth put forward their best effort. As a highly respected community member, he is an excellent role model for young people. He demonstrates high character and strong morals instilling these values in the young people he works with. 

"He challenges the youth to be their best," said Pritchard.

Tell us about yourself.

I enjoy helping with 4-H between being on 4-H council and club leader with Nance County Hot Shots 4-H Shooting Sport Club. In my free time I enjoy the great outdoors hunting and shooting firearms/archery. But my favorite past time is just spending quality time with close family.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

I look forward to teaching youth how to be responsible and safe all while having FUN with archery and firearms.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

I don’t have a specific favorite memory because I have multiple, and they happen at almost every practice every time a child lights up and smiles ear to ear when they realize they have accomplished a goal!!

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

By keeping every interaction fun and exciting while learning discipline and respect for themself and others.

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Allison Walbrecht is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 9. Allison volunteers with the Lancaster County 4-H program and was nominated by Tracy Anderson, Nebraska Extension Educator in Lancaster County.

Allison Walbrecht is a Lancaster County 4-H member, a three-year 4-H leader for the Unified Showing 4-H Club, and a freshman at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Allison has a passion for giving opportunities to all and, as a result, had the idea to start the Unified Showing 4-H Club. This club allows youth with disabilities to participate in 4-H activities and learn about livestock, specifically lambs, through weekly meetings at her family’s farm. Allison pairs youth with disabilities with a teenage “buddy” who helps ensure the youths’ and animals’ safety. Together with their designated lamb, they learn how to care for their lamb, lead it in the ring, and show it

"Through the Unified Showing 4-H Club, Allison has helped youth with disabilities find their spark by providing a safe space to learn, practice, and participate," wrote Anderson. 

Tell us about yourself.

I am currently a Freshman Animal Science major at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln, minoring in Engler Entrepreneurship and Nebraska Beef Industry Scholars.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Growing up as a fifth generation farmer on my family's cow calf operation I fell in love with agriculture, going to school in Lincoln I saw how this industry was not accessible to everyone. I love volunteering with 4-H because I get to feed my own passion of agriculture while watching youth fall in love with it as well.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

In 2022 Unified Showing was in 3 counties, all of whom had their county fairs on the same day. My team helped over 40 participants show at 3 different county fairs in a matter of 8 hours. To watch all the hard work over the year pay off as youth who typically lack opportunities to be involved had bleachers packed with family, friends and community members all eager to cheer them on, was by far the most meaningful part.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

Youth with disabilities unfortunately have limited opportunities within agriculture to be involved. Since starting this program I have seen kids come alive as they are able to connect with their animals, other youth with disabilities, and youth from the community who are eager to befriend them. When asking them what they are interested in doing when they grow up many say to continue working with animals. I have been fortunate enough to watch as they fall in love with agriculture and have myself been able to refall in love with it through their eyes.

The 2023 Water for Food Global Conference will be held May 8-11. A special discount is offered for faculty, students and staff at the University of Nebraska. (Photo by Craig Chandler, University Communication) This year's conference will focus on innovative ways to improve water and food security by increasing farmers’ resiliency to a changing landscape.

According to the latest farm income outlook, production and feed expenses are expected to level off this year, and fuel and oil prices are expected to fall modestly. View the full report at the links below. UNL ag finance experts review the latest farm income report, which suggests that Nebraska's net farm income will experience a modest rebound in 2023.

Throughout this webinar, Aiken overviews the functions and goals of the Growing Climate Solutions Act and how producers can find success in the ag carbon credit markets. UNL Ag Law and Water Law Specialist Dave Aiken webinar offers an overview of the Growing Climate Solutions Act and what it means for agriculture with respect to the ag carbon credit market.

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Jacqueline Simonson is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 1. Jacqueline volunteers with the Sheridan County 4-H program and was nominated by Melissa Mracek, Nebraska Extension Educator in the North Panhandle. 

"Jackie is always looking for new ways to help involve youth in new programs or create different sparks," said Mracek.

As a club leader, Jacqueline strives to incorporate youth voice into the club's activities. She empowers older members to take on leadership roles and encourages all members to work collaboratively. Jacqueline supports youth across Sheridan County by serving on the 4-H Council and engaging in fundraising activities. Last year, she raised $1,200 for the local 4-H robotics program.

"Jackie’s mindset will not only help youth members gain new interests but also will help them learn to become active members within their community and want to give back," said Mracek. 

Tell us about yourself.

I'm 37, married for 14 years, and have 3 wonderful kids. Lindsey who is 14, MacKenzie is 11 and Cade is 6

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Helping the kids realize how amazing they are, and helping them find new talents and interests

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

Watching my kids and their friends show animals and enjoy fair week!

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

By helping them when they want to try new things! I love learning with them!

The 2023 TAPS Competition participants will soon make their first decisions of the growing season — watch for updates in the coming months as participants choose their seed varieties, manage nitrogen applications and irrigation, and more.

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Lindsey Mendenhall is receiving the Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award. Lindsey is a member and volunteer with the Chase County 4-H program and was nominated by Debbie Kuenning, Nebraska Extension Educator in Perkin and Chase counties. 

Early in her 4-H career, Lindsey found her spark in the 4-H dog project. She never imagined that before her 4-H years were over, she would lead the local dog program. 

"Lindsey has continuously gone above and beyond not only to work on the project she loves herself, but to learn as much as she can and teach it to anyone who is interested," Kuenning wrote. "I admire her determination and work ethic and am extremely proud of the job she has done with our Dog Club!"

The Chase County 4-H Dog Club had struggled to maintain consistent leadership before Lindsey stepped up. It started when she asked the 4-H Council for funds to purchase and build dog agility equipment. Before she knew it, she was teaching other members, helping them train their dogs on courses and equipment she had built, scheduling meetings, and communicating with families. Lindsey grew into the leadership role with grace and maturity. 

With Lindey as the leader, the local 4-H Dog Club now thrives with over 20 active members. Lindsey has expanded local opportunities for 4-H members by helping establish rally and agility classes at the County Fair. She even lends her own dogs to Clover Kid members so they may participate in the Clover Kid Dog Show. Last year, Lindsey inspired and encouraged two fellow members to participate in the State 4-H Dog Show for the first time. 

Tell us about yourself.

I am a sophomore at Wichita State University majoring in biomedical engineering, but when I am home, you usually can find me hanging out with my friends or dogs. During my time in 4-H, I have come to love building bonds through training with my dogs, Buster, Nala, and Rex. I have been active in 4-H since before I could even join; I have shown dogs, cattle, and horses, baked, sewed, built rockets and birdhouses, attempted photography, and enhanced my shooting sports skills.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

When I joined the dog club at the age of 7 with my 4-month-old Golden Retriever puppy, Buster, I never would have thought I would be where I am today! When the main leader who was dedicated to getting Buster and I from the crazy puppy stage to graduate novice moved away, I knew I wanted to step up and lead in the junior leader role. I served as the junior leader for 5 years, and when none of the past leaders were returning last year, I stepped up to the leader. I delight in getting to help younger 4-Hers form bonds with their dogs through 4-H training! My favorite aspect of training dogs is the agility class. In the agility class, youth and their dogs get to apply the basic skills of obedience to a fun and fast-paced course consisting of jumps, tunnels, catwalks, and even teeter-totters. I don’t know who enjoys the course more, the kids or the dogs, but seeing the kids connect with their dogs to improve their time is always rewarding!

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

My favorite memory is when I first introduced the rally and agility classes to our county. When I started dog, our county only had obedience and showmanship classes, and since attending workshops and shows and becoming familiar with rally and agility myself, I wanted to bring it into our county. I pitched the idea to the 4-H Council, and the materials I would need, and they approved. I made and purchased a starting set of agility obstacles and rally sign holders, and created a game plan for how I was going to teach these skills to the others including the leaders. The first year, I started small with a few of the basic rally signs and only 5 obstacles, and I slowly worked my way up to where we are now with all of the 4-H rally signs and over 10 obstacles.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

When their older brother joined dog with their dog, Zip, 2 little clover kids, Sadie and Josie, were disappointed they didn’t get to participate. I offered for them to practice with Buster and Nala during practice, which was a win-win because they were happy that they got to participate and I had my hands free to help others directly. Sadie and Josie loved getting to be like the older kids, and Buster and Nala loved the attention and constant praise! Along with the other clover kids, Sadie and Josie are eager to join 4-H so they can compete in all the classes!