The 4-H Extension Agent, Hilary Grider, explains that, “4-H youth are chosen based on their leadership accomplishments and potential.” Grider adds, “In my eight years at this post, we have had not had anyone from Henderson County to be accepted for this type of honor. The Extension office is very proud of this first and to have these two young men chosen from Henderson County.”

The National 4-H Congress provides an opportunity for 4-H delegates from all across the country to gather and learn about community involvement, culture diversity, and service to others. During the 4-H Congress experience, Carver and Sanderson, along with Extension educators, 4-H adult volunteers, and 4-H youth will explore current youth issues and determine the most effective ways to address them. These 4-H youth will participate in educational, recreational, and networking opportunities and learn from the nation’s most outstanding community leaders, speakers, and educators who will present or facilitate plenary sessions, seminars, discussions groups, and service learning opportunities.

Each 4-H youth is responsible for their travel, lodging, and meal expenses during the congress week, and both Dr. Roddam and Ms. Grider have committed to helping these boys realize their potential through the National 4-H Congress experience. Ms. Grider asserts, “I believe many in the community know about the achievements of these young men, and I believe the community will hope to help them take advantage of this opportunity.” Ms. Grider says the 4-H, a 501(c)3 organization will accept tax-deductible donations to underwrite the expense of these 4-H delegates. Dr. Roddam agrees, “This is such a high honor, and we want to do what we can to get these boys there. Anything we can do to help get these boys to Atlanta.”

If the community wants to learn more about the 4-H Youth Development Program, Grider says she is always eager to talk about the program and can be contacted at 903.677.6130. She also welcomes donations of any amount to help the Henderson County 4-H Congress Delegation get to Atlanta and says they can be mailed to the AgriLife Extension, 101 E. Tyler Street, Courthouse Annex 2nd Floor, Athens, Texas 75751. Henderson County 4-H is proudly sponsored by and partnered with the United Way of Henderson County to build a better community.