Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little, but together we can do so much.” This statement reflects Sarranda Myrick’s heart for service and passion for providing leadership and educational opportunities for Jackson County youth.

“One of the very first people I met at Jackson County 4-H is Sarranda,” said Carly Montuani, 4-H agent for Jackson County. “Not only is she an amazing human being, but also truly gifted at building community and working with youth. We are so fortunate to have her on our team.”

Myrick became acquainted with Jackson County 4-H when her oldest son, Thadius, now 12, became a 4-H’er when he was in the third grade. She wanted her youngest son Carson, now 7, to be able to participate, but the county program did not have a Cloverbud leader, which is a volunteer in the community who works with youth ages 5-7.

“My ‘why’ has constantly evolved since I joined 4-H as a volunteer,” said Myrick. “It’s more than just seeing my sons excel in a club. I want to see my sons and our Cloverbuds be great at what they enjoy doing and to help them build life skills through our four H’s: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health.”

Seeing and meeting this need, she became an official 4-H volunteer in 2021 and took on the Cloverbud Leader role. Since then, she is known for championing enrichment opportunities for Jackson County 4-H’s youngest members, coordinating countywide community service opportunities, and representing Jackson County at state and district 4-H volunteer leadership events.

“It is my goal to ignite our members’ sparks, motivate them to try something new, and encourage them to be their best!” said Myrick. “At this age, it is so important to teach them confidence, resilience, independence, and compassion.”

Myrick is also actively involved in championing diversity and inclusion in Jackson County 4-H, among members and volunteers.

“Having members with different backgrounds and viewpoints provides a broader perspective of our community, its issues, and viable solutions,” said Myrick. “We learn from one another, so it is my goal to reach as many children and parents as possible and educate them on what 4-H is all about.”

The Florida 4-H Youth Development Program uses a learn-by-doing approach and caring adults to help youth gain the knowledge and life skills they need to be productive, responsible citizens. For more information about Jackson County 4-H, please contact UF/IFAS Extension Jackson County at jackson4h@ifas.ufl.edu or 850-270-7407.