4-H helps young people discover their spark

Otter Tail County 4-H is helping kids find their spark-join today!

September 29, 2021 – National 4-H Week is celebrated locally and nationally from October 3-9. In the United States, 4-H trains nearly 6 million young people through hands-on learning. In Otter Tail County, approximately 650 young people participate in 4-H. The impact of the organization is felt throughout the state. For example, last year:

• 89 percent of young people said they worked with their peers to solve problems in their community
• More than 11,000 young people became more involved in STEM-focused projects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)
• 93% explored a new activity, project or idea

This year’s 4-H Week theme is “Find Your Spark! and that’s a great way to describe how 4-H can positively impact a young person’s life. 4-H is a youth-centered program, where young people can choose their interests through project work, leadership roles, and relationships with peers and support adults. When young people are immersed in positive 4-H programs, they have the opportunity to ignite their spark.

“In Otter Tail County, we believe all young people have a spark,” said Sarah Downhour, extension educator and 4-H youth development manager. “With 4-H clubs, after-school programs, camps, fairs and leadership training, 4-H can be the place where young people explore and discover their spark. We encourage interested families to join us.

Join us on October 7 at 6 p.m. at the Fergus Falls YMCA for the West Otter Tail Volunteer Training or at the East Otter Tail Extension Office on Saturday, October 30 from 10 a.m. to noon. It is necessary that each club has 1 adult and 1 youth representative present, but all are welcome. There is no cost. To register, contact Sarah at [email protected]

If you would like to join 4-H, contact your local extension office:
ottertailcountymn.us/u-of-mn-extension
Western Otter Tail (Fergus Falls) 218-998-8760
East Otter Tail (New York Mills) 218-385-5420