Noah Pearson: My 4-H Experience Prepared Me to be Work Ready After Graduation

What began as a middle school hobby has grown into a life-shaping journey for Noah Pearson, a young man whose dedication to 4-H and the Shotgun Club has left a lasting mark on his community and beyond.

Woman and youth on stage at an awards event. — Noah Pearson was recognized by Wakulla High School as the top service hours honoree for his volunteer work with Wakulla 4-H.

Noah joined the 4-H Shotgun Club in 2018 as a sixth grader, inspired by his older brother’s involvement. His involvement in 4-H continued after moving from South Carolina to Florida. Over the years, he has grown from a curious pre-teen into a confident leader, sportsman, and community volunteer.

Learning Leadership and Life Skills in 4-H

“Noah has learned more than just how to improve his score in shotgun,” said Christy Pearson, Noah’s mother and a longtime 4-H leader. “He’s become a better leader and a good sportsman. He respects firearms and understands the rights and responsibilities that come with ownership.”

Noah’s 4-H experience expanded far beyond the shooting range. In 2021, he was part of the first Teen Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) camp and later became a Summer Camp Youth Volunteer, logging more work hours than even his mother, who was then a part-time 4-H staff member. That year, he also participated in two Community Pride Projects, volunteered with the Panacea After School Program, and served on the 4-H State Executive Board.

From Wakulla 4-H to National Competitions

His leadership and dedication earned him a spot representing Florida at the 2022 4-H National Food Challenge Competition in Texas—an honor that highlighted his versatility and commitment to the program. This June, Noah will close out his time as a 4-H youth member competing with the Florida 4-H shooting sports team at the 2025 4-H Shooting Sports National Championships event in Nebraska.

Youth kneels by a table. — Noah Pearson was one of two Florida 4-H youth who competed at the 2022 National Food Challenge at the Texas State Fair in Dallas.

“Noah really got involved with Wakulla 4-H in the summer of 2021,” Christy added. “He’s always been eager to learn, and he’s never shied away from the hard work—whether it was heavy lifting, dirty jobs, or late-night tasks.”

4-H Agent Rachel Pienta commented on Noah’s 4-H participation, “Noah’s leadership potential became evident during his first year participating with Wakulla 4-H. Since 2021, he has contributed over 600 volunteer service hours with the Wakulla 4-H program and was recently recognized among his high school senior class for serving the most hours over the course of his high school career.”

4-H Prepared Noah Pearson to be Work Ready

Now preparing to pursue a career in welding, Noah reflects on how 4-H shaped his path.

“I am very grateful to have been in 4-H,” he said. “It has made me a better person. I’ve learned public speaking, leadership, and community pride. Being in the shotgun club taught me sportsmanship and gave me a deep appreciation for the Second Amendment. I have confidence in my future because of the life skills I gained through 4-H.”

As he transitions from participant to mentor, Noah plans to return to the Shotgun Club next year as a volunteer instructor—ready to give back to the program that gave him so much.

Wakulla 4-H Shotgun Sharpshooters Club Accepting New Members

Young man in graduate regalia — Noah Pearson is a 2025 Wakulla High School graduate and longtime 4-H member. He will pursue a welding career after graduation.

The community is invited to the Wakulla Extension and 4-H Club Open House on Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 9 AM to 1 PM. This free family-friendly event will feature tours, live music, fun activities for youth, and the opportunity to learn about Extension programs and 4-H club opportunities. There will be food trucks on site with food available for purchase.

The Wakulla County Extension office is located at 84 Cedar Avenue in Crawfordville.