Blog Post By: Payton W., Clay County 4-H Member

I believe that one kid can make a difference. I think this because I am a kid and I have started to make a difference in my community. This year, I started a new community service project that has allowed me to leave a permanent mark in my community. If you take a trip down to the UF IFAS Clay County Extension Office, you will find a rock garden filled with inspirational quotes and happy messages. This rock garden is open to community members who would like to leave a rock to spread kindness or take a rock if they need a little pick-me-up. With the help of other 4-H members, I was able to paint about 100 rocks to be placed in the garden. I then worked with County Extension Director Annie Wallau and Clay County Master Gardeners to set up my rock garden right here in my hometown.

Throughout my years in 4-H, I have been able to volunteer with organizations like Vintage Market Days of Jacksonville, the Clay County Fair, Florida Farm Bureau, and the Green Cove Springs Food Pantry. Volunteering has taught me about the importance of giving back to my community. I enjoy working with others and learning new skills that I will be able to use throughout my life. My opportunities to publicly speak and talk with community members has helped me to build confidence and reach my personal goals. I hope to establish more rock gardens throughout Clay County to spread kindness, inspiration, and beauty. These rock gardens can make a difference in someone’s life by helping their attitude and overall mental health. I hope by doing these things in my community that I will inspire other kids to make a difference.

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