(Le Mars) — This week is recognized as National 4-H Week, and Plymouth County 4-H members are performing several tasks to celebrate. 4-H got its start in Iowa more than a hundred years ago as an after school program to help teach youth from the farm about technological advances in agriculture and home
environment. It is a youth organization for students between fourth grade and 12th grade. Since its beginnings, the 4-H organization has grown to include youth from rural and urban areas, every state across the nation, and it has even spread to nations around the world. Today, officials say one of every five
youths in Iowa is a member of 4-H. Plymouth County ranks as one of the top counties in Iowa for having nearly 500 members. Ann Schoenrock, County Program
Youth Coordinator says 4-H has broaden to include many areas of interests for today’s youth.
Schoenrock says by becoming a member of 4-H, it helps youth grow and develop self-confidence.
Schoenrock says many practical skills, such as learning to keep records as a 4-H member will help later in life.
The Plymouth County 4-H official says the 4-H year is just getting under way.
Plymouth County 4-H members have been showing their pride of 4-H all week long. On Monday, many 4-H members displayed a clover on their school locker, desk, or car. Tuesday, 4-H members were encouraged to post on social media what 4-H
means to them. Wednesday, many Plymouth County 4-H members wore 4-H clothing to school. Today, some 4-H clubs will be delivering treats to businesses, and on Friday, some members will visit classrooms at their school and share their 4H
experience. Schoenrock says some clubs are participating in a window decorating contest across the county.
