Written by Amanda Coers – Family Services advocate Esmerelda Riojas says it’s not Christmas for her until the 4H club brings in their gifts to the center. Each year, the 10 Brown County 4H groups work together to bring boxes of food, each containing all the fixings for a Christmas dinner.
“When I see the kids bringing in their boxes, then I know it’s Christmas, then I’m in the spirit,” said Riojas.
On Thursday, the Brown County 4H donated 41 boxes of food to the Family Services Center, a record number for the group. Each box was decorated with holiday wrapping, an added touch that Riojas appreciates. The boxes contained a frozen turkey, gravy, corn, corn bread mix, instant potatoes, green beans, stuffing, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and brownie mix. The Texas Farm Bureau donated the 41 turkeys for the 4H annual project.
Children ranging in ages from 3rd graders to seniors in high school filed into the Family Services Center carrying the Christmas dinner boxes. Their organized efforts were a testament to the personal discipline and values instilled by the 4H program.
“Leadership and community service is a big part of 4H,” said Scott Anderson, Brown County Ag Extension Agent. “Our seniors will be shooting for a big scholarship from the 4H program and their service hours are a big part of that,” explained Anderson.
4H Senior, Jessie Harris, from Brookesmith, has been active in the club for ten years. As she packed her last Christmas dinner box, she feels confident she’ll continue to carry the lessons she’s learned in 4H throughout her adult life. “We do a lot of service projects with 4H and I want to continue contributing as I grow up,” said Harris, who is considering attending Tarleton University.
Fellow 4H Senior, Sierra Gordon, a homeschool student has also served in 4H for ten years. “This year we had a goal of more participation, and I think it went really well,” said Gordon. “It makes me feel amazing to give back,” said Gordon, who is considering attending Texas A&M.
“This year you guys went over the top,” said Esmerelda Riojas as the groups finished packing their boxes. “This was good news for our families. May God continue to bless each one of you.”
Doak Givan, Executive Director of the Family Services Center, added, “It’s encouraging to see young people have that heart to serve other people.”
The Family Services Center, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit agency that has been promoting the health and well being of children and families in the Brownwood area since 1995. Family Services works to strengthen individuals, children, and families through professional counseling, education, advocacy, supportive services and collaboration with other local agencies.
