Kim Herman, Williams County 4H Youth Development Program Coordinator, in conjunction with The Ohio State University Extension Office, served as guest speaker for Community Hospitals & Wellness Centers-Montpelier Hospital Auxiliary Monday, May 11th at their regular meeting in the hospital conference room at 1 p.m.
She gave an overview of the 4H program and the opportunities offered for youth and teens from age 5 in kindergarden through age 18. 4H stands for “Head” for clear thinking, “Heart” for greater loyalty, “Hands” given to larger service, and “Health” for better living. The 4H motto is “To make the best better”. In addition to youth development, other branches of 4H include agriculture and natural resources, family and consumer sciences, and community development.
The “Cloverbud” social development program is designed for younger 4H members age 5 through age 8 in third grade. The traditional 4H program for ages 8 through 18 offers various “hands-on” projects for members while encouraging lifelong friendships and relationships, learning experiences and community service under the guidance of 4H advisors.
Currently there are 26 4H clubs in Williams County meeting once or twice each month. 4H members select projects each year from various categories including animal sciences, child and family development, clothing and textile science, creative and leisure arts, food and nutrition, healthy living, home living, leadership and citizenship, money management, natural resources, STEM-science technology, engineering and math. Also available are self-determined projects which are exploring topics not available as a statewide project. Group programs are also offered through the state agenda.
County fairs provide 4H members with a venue for competition and judging of projects. Animal projects include beef, dairy, swine, sheep, rabbits, goats, horses, llamas, alpacas, dogs, cats, guinea pigs and poultry involving chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and guineas.
At the conclusion of the fair, businesses, organizations and individuals bid on animal projects at the 4H auction sale. Many times proceeds are used by 4H members for expenses for their next project. Extra 4H club fund-raisers are held to help with camp expenses and for community service donations.
Each summer 4H members are eligible to attend 4H Camp Palmer at Harrison Lake for an all-county camp. This year approximately 125 campers will be there June 6-9 for four days and three nights. Counselors assist with various outdoor programs including archery, swimming, crafts, gun safety, various games including some life-size board games. The new camp swimming pool is sure to be a hit this year. The Williams County Fair Foundation helps by offering scholarships to attend 4H camp.
Adult volunteer advisors for each club must attend training each year for program updates and ideas to take back to their clubs and they encourage 4H members to take leadership responsibilities in their clubs. Special training is offered for certain programs. Advisors are required to pass BCI background checks and undergo fingerprinting every four years due to technological advances.
4H also includes options for in-school extra programs, working with guidance counselors. Members can select a specific career path and gather information and simulate the conditions and commitments associated with their path.
Following her talk, Kim was presented with an appreciation gift from Deanna Gipe, auxiliary past president and program committee member.
Auxiliary President Joyce Schelling conducted the regular meeting with roll call answered with “favorite spring flower”. Reports were approved from Secretary Connie Dunseth, Treasurer Barb Dietsch, Gift Shop Manager Vivian Brown, and Publicity Chr. Joyce Schelling.
Volunteers who assisted with the spring Book & Gift Fair on April 20th and the Hospital Staff Appreciation Tea on May 4th were thanked. Patient favors for May were carnations provided by the Hospital Auxiliary Executive Board.
The annual Auxiliary June Luncheon is scheduled Monday, June 8th at 12 noon in the east meeting room at the Montpelier Moose. Menu includes Swiss steak, mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, toss salad, beverage and assorted pies. Guest speaker will be Tara Spisak, CHWC dietician, and a candlelight memorial service will be conducted by Barb Dietsch. Guests are welcome and members are asked to contact Barb (419-485-3229) to make reservations no later than May 29th. Attendees should enter the east meeting room using the northeast door at the corner of the building.
INFORMATION PROVIDED