A Plymouth County couple has been inducted into the Iowa 4-H Foundation Hall of Fame.
Rich and Betty Benson received the honor at the Iowa State Fair Sunday, August 17th. The Bensons have been dedicated supporters of Plymouth County 4-H for over 20 years. Their involvement began with their children: Mary in the Union Livewires and twins, Matthew and Michael, in the Union Vikings. Betty, a former 4-H member herself, served as a club leader and supported her children as they showed dairy cows, pigs, participated in static exhibits and County Council.
Rich began his service on the 4-H & Youth Committee from 2003–2006 and joined the Fair Board in 2005, earning the Rookie of the Year award. Over the years, he held multiple roles including Vice President (2012–2016), President (2016–2019), Ticket Chairman (2010–2018), and Dairy & Goat Assistant Superintendent (2006–2017). He was named Fairman of the Year in both 2006 and 2010. Rich also served as Vice President of the Northwest District Iowa Association of Fairs for about 15 years.
Betty supported Rich’s efforts, often working as the Office Assistant during the fair. One of Rich’s proudest accomplishments was helping purchase and pay off land adjacent to the fairgrounds during his presidency, contributing to fair expansion.
During the fair, Rich and Betty enjoy visiting with attendees and watching the community come together. Rich especially liked seeing license plates from across the region while serving as Ticket Chairman.
Their motivation has always been to help kids grow and gain confidence through 4-H. Plymouth County is grateful for Rich and Betty’s years of service, leadership, and dedication to the fair and its youth.
The Iowa 4-H Foundation sponsors the annual Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the Iowa State Fair. Counties nominate volunteers, community leaders, and Extension staff members who have exemplified outstanding service and dedication to the 4-H youth program in their county. Congratulations to Rich and Betty Benson. Plymouth County is grateful for your years of service, leadership, and dedication to the fair and its youth.
