(Red Oak, IA) – Now is the time of year for youth to join and participate in 4-H, the youth development program of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

4-H grows confidence, creativity, curiosity, courage, character and so much more by allowing youth to use the skills they learn to go out and make a positive difference in their communities.  Help Iowa 4-H celebrate the outstanding impact youth have made throughout the state during National 4-H Week October 2-8.

4-H is active in each of Iowa’s 100 county extension districts and empowers youth to reach their full potential through many different types of experiences including photography, music, woodworking, sewing, archery, livestock and horticulture. Youth have fun while gaining valuable skills in communication and the arts, citizenship and leadership, science, technology, engineering and math, as well as healthy living and personal life management by being involved in 4-H.

“4-H in Montgomery County encompasses many aspects – from community clubs to Clover Kids and afterschool STEM programs,” states Chelsea Cousins, ISU Extension and Outreach Program Coordinator. “It’s a great way for youth in our community to develop lifelong skills and explore possible careers interests.”

As National 4-H Week fastly approaches it is important to remember the 4-H pledge, which is recited at nearly every 4-H club meeting, and what it teaches. ‘I pledge my Head to clearer thinking, my Heart to greater loyalty, my Hands to larger service and my Health to better living, for my club, my community, my country and my world.’

To learn more about how 4-H youth development is empowering young people in Montgomery County, visit extension.iastate.edu/4h, give us a call at 712.623.2592 or stop by our office at 400 Bridge Street, Suite 2 Red Oak, IA