On Nov. 19, Johnson County 4-H members and their families gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2022-2023 4-H program year. Members of the Johnson County 4-H Youth Council helped present 216 awards and recognitions to 159 members.

Fifty-three new 4-H members were awarded a certificate along with a metal plaque to recognize completion of their first year in 4-H. This is used to display the awards they may receive throughout their 4-H career. In addition, six club leaders were recognized for their dedication and leadership within the Johnson County 4-H program.

Twenty-six project area awards were given to members. County Record Book Project Awards must be intermediate or older to qualify; must have been enrolled in the project in the current 4-H year; must have completed records for at least 2 years including the year of application and show growth in the project area; and records must show leadership and citizenship activities. These do not necessarily have to be within the project area but some activity within the project area is most desirable. Each youth may apply for as many awards they would like yearly but are only allowed to win each area once during their 4-H career.

Merit and Excellence awards were given to 90 4-H members. These awards are determined by the club leaders with emphasis given on record details and year-round involvement in 4-H. Youth must meet specific requirements throughout the year, incorporating a variety of 4-H focus areas including public speaking, leadership, community service, and having an active role in their club.

Senior Awards are given to individuals who show growth through their years in 4-H. Senior awards have three categories: leadership, citizenship, and communications. To be eligible for these awards, the member must fill out an application demonstrating their involvement and how they incorporate leadership, citizenship, or communications into their everyday lives. This year, six members received at least one of these awards.

The Utilizing Your Potential award was given to 11 youth. Intermediate members (7th and 8th grade) are nominated by a leader or volunteer who recognizes their achievements in leadership, citizenship, and working with others. These individuals have and continue to show potential and growth in 4-H. This award is intended to encourage 4-H’ers to pursue even higher goals beyond the 4-H program.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award is a nationwide premier volunteer awards program. It encourages citizens to live a life of service through presidential gratitude and national recognition. It encourages youth to take a look around, be inspired and take positive action that changes the world. Eight youth members in Johnson County volunteered a total of 1,003 hours of community service. All certificates and awards are processed through our nation’s capital in Washington D.C. and the White House.

The 4-H’ers for 4-H “Count Your Clovers” Campaign is designed to provide financial assistance for youth enrollment fees and statewide events. This award is given to 4-H clubs from the Iowa 4-H Foundation who donate three dollars or more per member. Four clubs in Johnson County participated in the 2022 campaign, raising a county total of $812 and receiving first place in the southeast Iowa area.

For more information about the 4-H program, contact the Johnson County Extension Office at (319) 337-2145 or visit www.extension.iastate.edu/johnson.