Dee Staley remembers when, at age 18, she began leading the Silver Spurs 4-H Club.

Thursday, September 28, 2000

Dee Staley remembers when, at age 18, she began leading the Silver Spurs 4-H Club.

Still an adviser today, Ms. Staley’s glad she stuck with it.

"4-H in Lawrence County is wonderful," she said. "It can be a lot of work but it’s the best place to start."

Many 4-Hers learn teamwork, self-esteem, trades, skills that will take them to national contests.

"You learn lessons that build up your life," Ms. Staley said.

Next week, Oct. 1-7, county residents can learn even more about those lessons, and celebrate the marvel of 4-H during National 4-H Week.

"The week, celebrated annually, provides recognition to the 6.6 million youth involved in 4-H programs and the 6.3 million 4-H volunteers," said Laura Jane Murphy, county 4-H Extension agent.

Youth and volunteers pledge their head, heart, hands and health toward improving their communities and themselves, Ms. Murphy said.

Volunteers, like Dee Staley, and the dozens upon dozens of advisers, helpers, supporters, parents and others in Lawrence County, from ages 13 to over 70, contribute their knowledge and expertise to 4-H – a valuable contribution, she said.

Whether planning 4-H camp, county fair, teaching electricity, nutrition or public speaking, the skills volunteers bring to 4-H strengthen it and help the young people, she added.

"Over and over, volunteers say they concentrate on what they can contribute, yet are amazed at what they gain," Ms. Murphy said. "People enjoy volunteering when they’re able to make changes in a community that are needed."

The county 4-H would like to invite parents, college students, retired people and anyone with a particular interest or talent to become a 4-H volunteer, she added.

To volunteer, contact The Ohio State University Extension office at the courthouse, 533-4322.