4-H members offer their ‘hands to a larger service’

Canadian youth to lead projects in rural and urban communities

By Kaitlynn Anderson
Staff Writer
Farms.com

Youth from across the country have an opportunity to give back to their rural and urban communities this summer thanks to a new program through 4-H Canada.

Through the Hands to a Larger Service Program, 24 senior 4-H members will help create and lead community-focused projects across the country, a May release stated. As youth service leaders, these individuals will partner with other youth and organizations to conduct the projects.

Participants will develop project management and leadership skills, the release said.

The hands-on experience will also allow these youth to build networks, gain volunteer experience and contribute to a culture of service, the 4-H Canada website states.

Nicole French, a 4-H member in Peel, is one of the new youth service leaders. In her nine years as a member, she has completed more than 65 projects.

While French has been involved in regional and provincial roles, this experience will be her first position on a national level.

“I’m very excited to have the chance to give back to communities across the country and spread the word about 4-H,” French told Farms.com yesterday. “The program will … teach me how to leave a legacy with everything I do.”

The Government of Canada provided funding for the Hands to a Larger Service program through its Canada Service Corps program, which helps young Canadians gain volunteer experience.

McDonald’s Canada also supported the program.

“At McDonald’s, we share 4-H Canada’s commitment to empowering Canadian youth, connecting people to their communities, and promoting this country’s rich agricultural heritage. We are proud of this year’s youth leaders and congratulate them on the great work they are doing for their communities,” John Betts, president and chief executive officer of McDonald’s Canada, said in the release.

The following senior members will act as youth service leaders:

For more information on how you can become involved in 4-H Canada, click here.

UPDATED JUNE 1, 2018

4-H Canada photo