Erie County Legislator Joseph Lorigo and Cornell Cooperative Extension are pleased to announce that an informational meeting to highlight the many exciting programs available through 4-H will be held in November. With an extensive list of opportunities available to youths, ages 5-19, the informational meeting will discuss what programs are offered and how to get involved.
The meeting, co-sponsored by Legislator Lynne Dixon and Legislator John Mills, will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2012 at Hilbert College’s Swan Auditorium, 5200 South Park Ave., Hamburg. Reservations are not required and refreshments will be served. 4-H families and coordinators will be available to answer questions and share their experiences about being a member of 4-H.
“4-H helps shape the mind and character of children and young adults through meaningful hands-on education. Their programs build the foundation for a bright future and I am happy to support their efforts,” said Legislator Lorigo. “This informational meeting is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in 4-H to learn more.”
“The 4-H program in Erie County is alive and strong. With more than 600 youth members in our county for 2012, we are eager to share the many opportunities with the community and explain how to get involved for 2013. New youth members are being welcomed for the new program year and opportunities, training and support for new adult volunteer leaders is also being offered. 4-Hers can participate in clubs or as independent members and can reside in any part of the county; rural, suburban, and urban settings. The possibilities are endless and foster an environment of learning, citizenship, inclusion, and leadership development,” said Laurie Korb, 4-H Community Educator.
4-H’s programming list appeals to varying interests and more than 40 programs are currently offered in the following categories:
- Healthy Living
- Natural Resources
- Plant Science/Gardening
- Animal Science
- Science & Technology
- Community Service
4-H’s success has been well documented. According to its national website, www.4-H.org, an independent study found that, “The structured learning, encouragement and adult mentoring that young people receive through their participation in 4-H plays a vital role in helping them achieve future life successes. When compared to other youth, young people involved in 4-H, have higher educational achievement and motivation for future education (and) are more civically active and make more civic contributions to their communities.”
For information about the meeting or to get involved in 4-H, please contact Legislator Lorigo at 858-8922 or email joseph.lorigo@erie.gov, or Laurie Korb at 652-5400 ext. 130 or email llk47@cornell.edu.