This summer is shaping up to be an exciting and impactful season for La Plata County 4-H, with a variety of events designed to engage youths, build skills and strengthen community connections across the Four Corners.
Kicking things off the first weekend in May is our annual 4-H Horse Camp, a highly anticipated event that brings together youths from Archuleta, Montezuma, Dolores and even San Juan County, New Mexico. This fun-filled and educational weekend offers participants the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of horsemanship while building lasting friendships with fellow 4-H members.
Throughout the camp, youths will learn essential skills related to horse health, effective communication and teamwork. Beyond the technical knowledge, the camp provides a meaningful space for young people to strengthen the bond with their horses while connecting with peers who share similar passions.
On May 6, we will host our annual Meat Quality Assurance training. This is required training that all 4-H livestock members go through and plays a critical role in educating youths about the responsibilities that come with raising animals for human consumption.
Participants will learn about food safety, animal well-being and the ethical considerations involved in livestock production. The training emphasizes the importance of proper care, respect and humane treatment of animals, helping youths grow to be responsible and knowledgeable producers. By completing this training, 4-H members ensure they are upholding the highest standards in animal care and contributing to a safe and ethical food system.
Another exciting event to look forward to is the 4-H Community Garage Sale, taking place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 17 at the La Plata County Fairgrounds. This event offers community members a chance to shop for great deals while supporting our local La Plata County 4-H program. All proceeds from the garage sale directly benefit La Plata County 4-H, helping fund workshops, camps, scholarships and other valuable opportunities for young people in our area.
Community support is essential to the success of this event and donations are needed. So while you are doing your spring cleaning, please keep La Plata County 4-H in mind.
Items can be dropped off between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. May 15 and May 16 at the La Plata County Fairgrounds. We gladly accept most gently used items, however, we are unable to take clothing, shoes, mattresses, dirty items or anything broken or in poor condition. Donations that are clean and in usable condition are greatly appreciated as they help ensure items can easily find a new home.
If you need to arrange an earlier drop-off, please contact the Extension Office at 382-6460.
With these exciting opportunities ahead, La Plata County 4-H continues to provide meaningful experiences that empower youths, promote responsibility and strengthen our community by giving our youths a place to belong.
Angela Fountain is the La Plata County 4-H youths development agent. She can be reached at afountain@lpcgov.org.
