4-H Youth Get Their Moment at Commissioners Court

Young County’s 4-H members stepped forward at Commissioners Court on Sept. 28 for a photograph and a proclamation recognizing a program that helps young people grow from learning a skill to leading a community.

“And I think this is one of our favorite items,” County Judge Win Graham said as he introduced the recognition.

Judge Graham proclaimed Oct. 4–10 National 4-H Week in Young County, joining a nationwide observance with the theme “Beyond Ready.”

The theme reflects the program’s aim of preparing young people for a changing world through practical experience, community involvement, and opportunities to take responsibility.

After reading the proclamation, Judge Graham invited the children to come forward and arranged for the document to be signed for their photograph.

The recognition focused on a youth program whose reach extends beyond its agricultural roots. The proclamation described 4-H as a place where young people can explore science, agriculture, and community leadership while developing skills they will carry into work and adult life.

Delivered through the Cooperative Extension System, 4-H emphasizes learning by doing. Its projects and activities give young people opportunities to ask questions, try new approaches, and connect what they learn with the needs of their communities.

The proclamation credited the organization with helping youth become engaged, successful and independent, while connecting them with adults who support their development.

For the young people standing before commissioners, the ceremony was a public acknowledgment that their learning and participation matter to Young County.

Judge Graham encouraged residents to recognize the impact of 4-H and its work “empowering youth with the skills they need to lead for a lifetime.”

The observance also comes during a transition for Young County Extension. Later in the meeting, commissioners accepted the resignation of longtime Family and Consumer Sciences Extension agent Penny Berend, effective Oct. 5.

In her resignation letter, Ms. Berend singled out her 4-H family among the relationships she would miss.