AMES, Iowa--Gov. Chet Culver has officially proclaimed Oct. 5-11, 2008, as National 4-H Week in Iowa.

In the proclamation, Gov. Culver points to the 4-H program’s Iowa beginnings in 1901, making Iowa one of the pioneers in the youth development movement.

Culver said 4-H helps “youth and adults learn, grow and work together to live the 4-H motto: to make the best better.”

Other points of pride mentioned in the proclamation are the 125,000 youth participants, more than 11,000 adult volunteers and more than 100 different programs and projects made available to Iowa youth through Iowa State University Extension.

Culver also said, “I urge my fellow citizens to observe this week by connecting with youth, friends, fellow employees and relatives, and with school, community and civic groups to engage in projects benefiting their community.”

“Governor Culver’s proclamation is a great honor to the Iowa 4-H program,” said Chuck Morris, director of the Iowa State University Extension 4-H Youth Development program. “4-H has expanded its curriculum to accommodate youth in larger towns and cities.  Many projects and activities emphasize science, technology, leadership, citizenship, communication and the environment. Iowa youth also continue to participate in traditional 4-H projects such as livestock and gardening.”



The theme for National 4-H Week is “Keeping it Green.”

For more information about 4-H, contact your local Iowa State University Extension county office or the state 4-H office at (515) 294-1017.

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Related News Release: Iowa 4-H’ers Are “Keeping It Green” for National 4-H Week

Additional Web sites:
ISU Extension 4-H Youth Development
Kids and Teens/4-H
Iowa 4-H History
Iowa 4-H Centennial Photo Gallery
ISU Collegiate 4-H
Iowa 4-H Youth Council
National 4-H Council -- Ask your local ISU Extension county office to access ad layouts and web banners at this site.


National 4-H Week in Iowa Proclamation

4-H clover