ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES

NATIONAL 4-H WEEK CELEBRATES ALABAMA YOUTHS

AUBURN, SEPT. 24---National 4-H Week (Oct. 3-9) celebrates the accomplishments of 4-H youths in Alabama. Young people 9-19, regardless of race, color, sex, national origin or disability, develop leadership, public speaking, citizenship and interpersonal skills in a variety of 4-H programs.

In Alabama, 4-H is the largest informal education program for boys and girls. It makes a major contribution to our state by helping youths acquire knowledge and develop life skills that help them become self-directing, productive and contributing members of society. There are more than 85,000 youths involved in 4-H in the state.

4-H is family- and community-oriented. 4-H'ers devote much of their time to community service in a wide variety of projects, ranging from helping the elderly and disabled to helping preserve the environment.

4-H clubs in all 67 counties will observe National 4-H Week in many ways. Some 4-H clubs are planning open houses and rallies, or creating 4-H posters and bulletin boards to display in schools and libraries, while others are sending members to speak to civic organizations. Many 4-H'ers are planning to wear 4-H shirts to school during National 4-H Week. Still other clubs have planned special community service activities for the week.

Adult volunteers are an important part of any 4-H program. Volunteers share their knowledge, talent, energy and time with young people. This dedication and service bring with it personal rewards as the volunteers help youths learn.

4-H is indeed having a strong impact on youths and on Alabama. Now is a perfect time to get involved with 4-H in Alabama. Each fall, 4-H clubs reorganize and enroll new members and leaders.

Find out how you can become involved by contacting your county Extension office.