When it comes to community service, local organizations, and agencies in the Shoals area are getting more than just a helping hand---try 3000 of them! This year 1500 4-H members (volunteers) from Lauderdale County are dedicating themselves to several community service projects in the upcoming year to help organizations such as Ronald McDonald House Charities, A & E Hospice Care, Incorporated, and Safeplace, Incorporated. The 4-H County Council, which consists of officers from 4-H school clubs in Lauderdale County and 4-H special interest clubs, chooses the leadership and community service projects for the year.
The main 2004-2005 project for Lauderdale County 4-H participants is collecting soda can tabs to help support Ronald McDonald House Charities. Ronald McDonald Houses provide a home away from home for families of seriously ill children who are receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. Beginning in September 2004, 4H members began placing buckets by soda and snack machines at their schools in hope of raising as much money as possible by April 2005. Such projects are a great way for all families to get involved.
Lauderdale County 4-H members have several other community service projects planned for the upcoming months, including making snowman crafts for area nursing and assisted living homes, valentine crafts for children in the Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital pediatric unit, and collecting goods for Freedom House and Safeplace, Incorporated. There are many reasons to get involved in community service and volunteerism---the reward, the feeling of fulfillment, and so much more. Some say it's even addictive. The rewards are said to be endless.
Lauderdale County 4-H is willing to work with other organizations and agencies in the Shoals area. For more information on the 4-H program, contact Extension's Lauderdale County Office at (256) 766-6223, or visit their website at www.aces.edu/counties/Lauderdale/4h.htm.