4‑H, what is it and why would I want to join? Jorgia Fuchtman, age 16, has been in 4‑H since she was a clover kid. She has been involved in a variety of areas; showing bucket calves, food revue, presentations, and shooting sports to name a few. She also had the opportunity to serve on the 4‑H Council. 4‑H has taught her to better herself as a person, enhanced her knowledge in agriculture, opened her eyes to new opportunities, and helped improve the skills she already had. It also has given her great role models to help shape her character and life decisions. Some of her shooting sports instructors taught her more than just the art of shooting. For example, Chase, BB gun instructor, taught her to "take your time and breath, your not on everyone else's time, so take your time, breath and do the job right." He also taught her that if you see a job that needs done, go and get the job done. Larry, shotgun coach, taught her to get on things and follow through. Amy, extension office, has taught her to stay calm in every situation and to get all the facts before jumping to conclusions. Jorgia has also learned a lot from being on the 4‑H council, like consider everyone's opinion before making a decision and to discuss stuff before voting on it. In the end, 4‑H is not about the trophies and ribbons you win, it's about what you learn and how to apply it throughout your life.
Jenna Fuchtman, age 14, joined 4‑H as a clover kid, too. She participated in shooting sports, dog shows, food revue, photography, and sewing. She has a lot of fun and enjoys learning new things. She enjoys the project days. The extension ladies come up with projects, but then each kid gets to make it their own. Not only has she enjoyed entering them at the Knox County Fair, but also used them for gifts for others. The judges' critics and comments are always positive and helpful in making the project better. She has learned to take those comments and learn from them. Showing her dog, Pepper, was also a favorite of hers. She learned how to be a good caretaker and all about the dog's breed and how they train. It taught her, to get the dog to do what she wanted it to do, PATIENCE. Even though she has a shy, reserved personality, she has been able to learn to express her ideas in an encouraging environment.
Elliot Fuchtman, age 12, has been in 4‑H since he was 8. He likes 4‑H because it has taught him to work for what you want. All the adult leaders are nice and very helpful. His favorite project was rockets. The leader that came on rocket project day had great tips and tricks to apply to the process of building the rocket. He was so excited that his rocket made it to the State Fair that year! He has also enjoyed archery, BB gun, and .22. Each instructor is very good at making sure each kid is in the correct position and that safety is always first. Elliot not only thinks that it is fun to participate, but that he also gets a little premium for each ribbon that he earns.
The 4‑H pledge sums it up as to why you should join 4‑H, I pledge my HEAD to clearer thinking, My HEART to greater loyalty, My HANDS to larger service, and My HEALTH to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.