Blake Cooper of Adams County was inducted into the 2008 Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the 4-H Exhibit Building at the Iowa State Fair on Sunday, Aug. 17. Eighty-two Iowa counties participated this year in selecting inductees for their outstanding service and dedication to 4-H. Inductees or their surviving family members were presented a plaque by the Iowa 4-H Foundation as they were introduced on stage.
Blake Cooper is a lifetime 4-H supporter in Adams County. He has served more than 20 years on the Adams County Youth and 4-H/FFA Fair committee, been an assistant 4-H leader in the Prescott 4-H Workers 4-H club, served on the Adams County Extension Council, and helped with countless 4-H livestock activities. He and his wife Phyllis raised 3 kids through 4-H. Blake is also an active Prescott community and Adams County volunteer in many other ways including service on the Prescott school board, Prescott church board, Adams County FHA committee, the AEA 14 board, and helping with the Prescott Septemberfest celebration. He is well known for his helpful, positive attitude, willing spirit, and long time service to the Adams County Fair. Adams County 4-Hers know Blake as someone they can always go to for advice and help.
Counties selected inductees for their exceptional work in contributing to the lives of 4-H members and the overall 4-H program. Many of the 2008 inductees served as club leaders, youth mentors, fair superintendents, fair board members, Extension council members, county youth council members, fair judges, financial supporters, chaperones, or Iowa State University (ISU) Extension staff members. The inductees have demonstrated dedication, encouragement, commitment and guidance to Iowa’s 4-H’ers through the years.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for the counties and state to recognize and celebrate 4-H volunteers and staff who have shown outstanding service and dedication to Iowa's 4-H program," said Chuck Morris, ISU Extension 4-H Youth Development director.
The Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame was initiated in 2002 to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of 4-H.