Letters: 4-H volunteers appreciated, and needed

Each year, thousands of volunteers in Minnesota donate their time and energy to make their communities a better place to live. These volunteers will be among the millions across the country who will be spotlighted during National Volunteer Week, April 16-22.

One group that relies heavily on volunteers is the University of Minnesota Extension’s 4-H Youth Development Program. During National Volunteer Week and every week throughout 2022, Minnesota 4-H celebrates and appreciates its more than 6,700 volunteers — each one critical to the success of 4-H programs and making a difference in the lives of youth.

In Carlton County, 163 youth and 54 adult volunteers in 4-H program volunteers serve as club leaders, project leaders, committee members and in advisory capacities for the 4-H Youth Development Program.

Research shows that Minnesota 4-H volunteers help youth gain leadership skills, serve their communities, improve their decision-making skills and develop career readiness.

The work of 4-H volunteers is continuous. Every day volunteers lend a helping hand to make 4-H programs more beneficial to the residents of Carlton County. Anyone interested in joining the team of 4-H volunteers are invited to contact me, Katie Siltanen, Carlton County 4-H Extension Educator, at 218-384-8682 or [email protected]. Learn more about 4-H Youth Development at extension.umn.edu.

Katie Siltanen,

University of Minnesota Extension

Carlton County 4-H Extension Educator