Before every 4-H meeting and event, we start by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and our 4-H Pledge.

This past week, I was asked to meet with one of our local 4-H clubs and discuss the meaning of our 4-H Pledge. While preparing our discussion, I was reflecting on how much I appreciate these words and their meaning.

Our pledge embodies everything that we need to be the best versions of ourselves. Because of this, I want to share it. Maybe you will feel inspired by the words, like I am.

I pledge:

My head to clearer thinking.

My heart to greater loyalty.

My hands to larger service.

My health to better living.

For my club, my community, my country and my world.

I pledge my head to clearer thinking: This is a way of saying that we go into each day with an open mind, without bias, eager to learn new things and allow ourselves to grow to be a better person.

My heart to greater loyalty: This means that we care more for other people rather than just ourselves. It’s a pledge to give our heart to others, care for them and be faithful to commitments and obligations.

My hands to larger service: This is a representation of our giving culture. This not only is in community service, which is a pillar of our 4-H program, but also in giving strength and love to others. We believe that in order to become outstanding citizens, you need to have compassion and a sense of community.

My health to better living: In all of this giving and compassion that we have in 4-H, we also need to remember to focus on self-care. It is important that we strive to be in the best physical and mental health we can be, so we are able to live our best lives and have the strength and power to give back to others to the best of our ability.

We pledge these 4 H’s to make our club, community, country and world a better place to live, grow and thrive.

In 4-H, youth members learn these skills by having fun and making the most of every situation, raising animals, creating and building new things, critical thinking, community engagement, and building healthy adult and youth partnerships.

Our youths are able to build a sense of compassion, confidence and pride in who they are because they learn to give to others and see the positive influence they have on others.

Angela Fountain is the La Plata County 4-H youth development agent. Reach her at angela.fountain@co.laplata.co.us or 382-6460.

Angela Fountain