In 4-H, we spend a lot of time teaching young people important life skills like leadership, responsibility, resilience and service. One value that naturally grows alongside those lessons is gratitude.
Being thankful for what we have, and for the people who make opportunities possible, helps young people recognize that success doesn’t happen alone. It teaches them to see and appreciate the support systems around them and to one day give that same support to others.
Every workshop, camp, conference, show, jackpot and award celebration are made possible because of the incredible support from our community. Our volunteers give countless hours mentoring youths, sharing their time, love and expertise. Local businesses and individual donors give their hard-earned money so that programs remain accessible to families across our community. Parents and caregivers dedicate their time and energy to transportation, encouragement and cheering on youths through both successes and challenges. Community partners open their doors and share resources all because they believe in the mission of La Plata County 4-H and positive youth development.
Because of this support, young people get opportunities they might not otherwise have. They learn how to care for animals, grow food, solve problems, speak in front of large crowds, manage responsibility, and travel the around the country and world. They discover new interests, build confidence and learn that they can do the hard things. These experiences stay with them and shape the way they approach school, work and their future life goals.
4-H would not be the program it is today without the generosity and commitment of our community. It truly takes all of us working together to create safe, welcoming spaces where young people can learn, belong and thrive. Every donated hour, dollar, resource and word of encouragement makes a big difference in a young person’s life.
I am deeply thankful for everyone who invests in our 4-H youths. Your time, kindness and belief in these young people creates opportunities that extend far beyond any single event or season. You are helping shape confident, capable and caring individuals who will carry these lessons forward into their families, careers and communities. On behalf of our 4-H families and staff membersv, thank you for making this program possible. I am truly grateful for each of you.
If you are interested in supporting La Plata County 4-H financially, you can donate here: https://tinyurl.com/LPC4HDonation.
Angela Fountain is the La Plata County 4-H youths development agent. She can be reached at afountain@lpcgov.org.
