During National 4-H Week, Jerauld/Buffalo County4-H memberscelebratetheorganization that engages, enables and empowers not only local youth but also makes an impact on 6 million young people every day. This year’s annual 4-H Week serves as a reminder that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world and their own communities.
Here in Jerauld and Buffalo Counties, SD, 4-Hers use their own voices to share what 4-H means to them along with the impressive projects they’ve worked on in recent months. Read more from 4-H members themselves in the articles and letters below.
Former 4-H member weighs in on experiences
Mercedes Jones interview with Jim Burg
* How old were you when you started 4-H?
10
* What was the highlight of your 4-H years
Getting to be President of the State
* Did you have to keep a record book?
Yes
* How many clubs were in Jerauld County 4-H?
Not sure maybe 3-4
* What was your most memorable experience in 4-H?
Winning a trip to Chicago for the 4-H Congress
Making it to regions in the tractor contest and then winning state in that contest
* What is the best advice you would give 4 H'ers of today and the future?
It is the best youth organization. You learn to speak in front of others starting with a pledge and then going on to demonstrations. You don’t realize it but pretty soon you have learned to be a public speaker. I attribute my speaking skills today to 4-H.
From the Letterbox
Hi I’m Caroline Witte and I’m a senior in 4-H. My favorite part about 4-H is doing 4-H rodeo and getting to meet new people! My favorite 4-H memory is when I was washing my goats and Ryder sprayed me with a hose and Carissa got it all on video! In 4-H I’ve learned so much! It has helped me with my public speaking skills, leadership skills, and helped me want to try new things!
Hi, my name is Raylee Fagerhaug and this is my ninth year in 4-H! I am involved in 4-H rodeo, showing cattle, static exhibits, and community service projects. My favorite part about 4-H is all the different project areas you can try! One of my favorite 4-H memories was winning the jr. girls barrel racing in 2020 at the state finals rodeo. I have learned leadership and communication skills, as well as responsibility and respect. 4-H has given me the opportunity to give back to the community and help others!
Hi, I am Wyatt Fagerhaug and my favorite thing about 4-H is rodeo, my best memory is winning team roping at the CSD 4-H rodeo also in Fort Pierre, from 4-H I have learned how to show certain animals correctly and I have been in 4-H for three years.
My name is Hannah Heezen and I have been in 4-H for nine years. My favorite thing about 4-H is meeting all the new people at a different variety of activities. My best 4-H memory is at State Finals Rodeo with my family. What I have learned through 4-H are life skills through all the activities you do.
Hi, I am Ella Fagerhaug and I have been in 4-H for seven years. My favorite thing is 4H rodeo and my best memory comes from winning the All-Around saddle in Ft. Pierre at the CSD 4-H Rodeo. The best lesson that 4-H has given me is how to take failure and learn from it.