Fall Is In The Air, But Williston Is Seeing Green
As the leaves turn to the colors of fall, there is still some green to talk about in Williston. October 2-8 is National 4H week!
4H week is an opportunity to celebrate this outstanding organization. This is the week that many events bring together 4‑H’ers from across the county to engage and learn on many topics, and have tons of fun while generating interest.
I visited with Lavina Domagala earlier about Williams County 4H in general. The county itself has 12 clubs with 3 new ones starting just last year. There are over 200 members county wide, with with an additional 100 or so adult volunteers. 2022 saw 48 new kids enrolled so far, with more expected. According to Domagala, who has served as a leader for 34 years, the Sweet Clovers, Prairie Partners and Prairie Clovers are the longest operating clubs in Williams County from way back when.
In programs offered through 4H, young people work on many practical projects in many fields including agriculture, health, science, and civic participation in a supportive setting, where they get mentoring from adults and are urged to assume proactive leadership positions. Through in-school and after-school programs, school and community groups, and 4H camps, children have the opportunity to participate in 4H in every county in the nation.
Parents know first hand just how important this organization is to a community, and to the kids that participate. Kids are able to build valuable life skills by leading hands-on projects in areas like science, health, agriculture and, civic engagement – helping them to grow confidence, independence, resilience, and compassion. It's a lot of work, but it is so worth it! So celebrate 4H week in style! If you want to know more about 4H in Williams County, contact the NDSU Extension office at 701-572-4595.