Barbara Latkowski
Caledonia Courier
Parents along with past and new participants attended as club president, Jaimie Fraser explained exciting opportunities, events and projects planned for the coming year.
4-H Canada is made up of over 25,000 members and 7,700 volunteers across the country.
The First 4-H meeting of the year took place on Jan. 24 at the Fort St. James Fire hall.
The program is centred on positive youth development.
By providing 4-H’ers with mentors and role models, youth are given the opportunity to enjoy meaningful, positive experiences that build confidence, positive self-identity, self-esteem and a sense of achievement.
This year’s leaders: Jamie Fraser, Shelley Leatherdale, Valerie Crowley, Nancy Schlamp and Dawn Collins offer a world of experience and look forward to a new year.
4-H allows young Canadians to become skilled, engaged and responsible leaders who are passionate about making meaningful contributions in their communities and beyond.
“It’s about learning to do by doing. This is our motto”, Fraser said. “We promote kids getting out there and doing stuff.”
In Fort St. James, which is part of the greater Vanderhoof District, 4-H council participants 6-21 years can partake in various projects including: communication/public speaking, photography, gardening and animal projects such as beef, sheep, dog and poultry.
“Every project offers different units and each unit has certain requirements that must be completed,” Fraser said.
The program also offers various activities such as camps, family days, and rally days where participants are graded and awarded for their achievements.
“We are not competitive. We work on growth, not competition but these are great experiences for the kids,” Fraser said.
4-H also offers participants the opportunity to apply for various scholarships and their involvement can also be applied towards high school credits.
Cost of the program covers insurance, regional program fees and administration including manuals.
The program runs from January to August and meetings are held once a month with project meetings in between.
Registration deadline is Feb. 15.
For more information about 4-H visit: https://4-h-canada.ca/about-4-h