4-H Member Rex Schlicht leads the Woonsocket School participation in a flag burning ceremony he organized between his 4-H Club and the American Legion this past May.

When I think about what 4-H has done for me throughout the time I have spent in it, the list goes on and on. It is easy to say that I would not be the same person that I am today without joining 4-H back when I was just a young eight-year-old. Some of my clearest memories have been from participating in various 4-H events and activities.
From speaking in front of others, to showing sheep at the State Fair, to cooking a meal and knowing just how healthy all the ingredients are, I have grown so much as a 4-Her. These activities have taught me hard work and dedication in order to have success at the end of my project.
One of my favorite parts of 4-H, though, is helping and mentoring the younger members. 4-H is all about making the world a better place to live in, and one of my favorite ways to do that is through helping the younger members who look up to you.
The competitions and shows are fun and exciting, but the most important thing to me about 4-H isn’t marked with a ribbon. The best part of this organization is the people. The other families and kids in your club will become almost family-like and will be there to help with anything you need. I know for a fact I would not have been successful through my career if I had not had the amazing, caring people to help me out along the way. So if you join 4-H, you are not only joining for the learning aspect, but you are also joining if for the one-of-a-kind relationship aspect.
Next week, Oct. 2-8, is National 4-H Week, and the theme is #4HGROWN. 4-H has helped me grow in many areas, including responsibility, teamwork, caring, confidence, public speaking and leadership. I encourage you to join 4-H! Contact our 4-H office at 605-796-4380 for more information, or just visit with any 4-H member in Sanborn County!