Dozens of 4-H members were present as Brown County Commissioners approved a proclamation declaring October 5-12, 2015 as National 4-H Week in Brown County.
Jessi Harris of Brookesmith 4-H and Hannah Hull of Early 4-H brought the proclamation to the court.
The proclamation stated that the 4-H youth development program of the Texas A&M Agriculture Extension Service celebrates 108 years of experienced based education giving young Texans a learning experience that provides knowledge and life skills to become productive members of society.There are more than 607,000 urban, suburban, and rural youths ranging in age from 8-19 participating across the state, representing a diverse cross section of the state’s population, according to the proclamation.
The 4-H youth development program is made possible by the more than 29,000 volunteers who give generously of their talents, resources and time to the program. It develops positive role models and through programs develops character and instills values that make our state strong and great, according to the proclamation.
“I think everybody on this court participated in 4-H as a kid,” said West. “It is the most positive influence on a young person’s life in rural Texas. It teaches you responsibilities, it is a wonderful program. I can’t say enough about the benefits that you kids are going to receive.”
In appreciation of Brown County Commissioner’s support of the 4-H program, members brought baskets full of baked goods and candies.
Pictured above are Brown County 4-H members present during the commissioners’ proclamation of October 5-12, 2015 as National 4-H Week in Brown County.
Commissioners also declared October Texas Extension Education Association Month in Brown County. The Texas Extension Association supports 4-H programs throughout the state, holding fundraisers to provide 4-H scholarships each year. Locally, the extension education clubs volunteer hours equal $154,428 and statewide are $3 million. According to Brown County Extension Education club representatives who addressed the court Monday, there were 21 extension education clubs in Brown County during the 1920s. Currently there are three clubs. May EE club was founded in 1927 and still exists today, along with the Owen EE club that was founded in 1928. The McDaniel EE club began in 1957. In addition to providing scholarships, the clubs also give $5,000 or more annually to the Texas 4-H Center at Lake Brownwood.
Pictured below are members Dale Henderson, Martha Baker, Joann White, and Ruby Goodwin after the proclamation of October as Texas Extension Education Association Month at Monday’s meeting.
