Jackson 4-H Program Recognizes Youth, Volunteers and Community at Annual Banquet – “Dream Big”

In the short span of three years, the Jackson 4-H Youth Development Program has grown not only in number, but in quality. At the close of the 2015-2016 4-H year there were 243 youth enrolled in Jackson County 4-H. Ten 4-H clubs were led by over 150 volunteers and our 4-H programs reached over 2700 Jackson County youth.

More youth than ever in the history of 4-H in Jackson County are participating in clubs and state, regional and national competitions, as well as in school enrichment programs. These accomplishments were recognized at the 2015-2016 Jackson County 4-H Awards and Recognition Banquet and silent auction, held on Tuesday, September 20 at the Jackson County Ag Complex on Penn Ave.

 

 

 

 

A record 248 people were in attendance and were treated to a delicious meal, courtesy of the Jackson County 4-H Buckaroos Horse Club. This year’s theme was “Dream Big” and these youth have not only dreamed big, they have delivered!

The evening began with opening thoughts from 4-H Agent Angel Granger followed by introductions by Livestock Club Nathalie Yoder. Pledges were led by Livestock Club member Bud Basford and the return of thanks was given by Buckaroos Horse Club member Johnny Stone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The guest speaker for the evening was former Jackson County Extension Director, Mr. Ed Jowers, who is a strong supporter of the 4-H program. Mr. Jowers shared information about his career in Extension and the role he played in building the Extension program and the current facilities in Jackson County. 4-H Agent Angel Granger presented Mr. Jowers with a plaque for his inspirational leadership in Extension and 4-H programs.

Youth and volunteers from all areas of Jackson County 4-H were recognized for their club participation, participation in County and District 4-H Events and Tropicana Speech Contests, the North Florida Fair, the State 4-H Livestock, Meats and Poultry Judging contests, the Area A Horse Show, the State and Regional 4-H Horse Shows, the National Poultry Skillathon, and the 4-H Chick Chain program.

 

Special recognition of volunteers included awards for 4-H Buckaroo volunteers Tabatha Marlow, Terry Harris and Michelle Stone for “Always Being There.” Club leader Katricia Edenfield was recognized by her club with a plaque.

 

Livestock Club leaders Brad and Stacey Warden were presented with a gift card from the volunteers and club members and 4-H Agent Angel Granger was presented with a 4-H Livestock Club shirt.

 

Graduating seniors Savannah Capps, Chelsea Edenfield and Trey Smith were recognized with certificates recognizing their years of participation in 4-H.

The new 4-H year started September 1. We are looking forward to another great year of 4-H programs and events in Jackson County and we would love for you to join us!