4H Investing in Future Leaders

The annual tradition of the Citrus Stampede Rodeo is returning to our hometown this week. The
Fairgrounds in Inverness is a beehive of activity. The stockman rolling in with trailers loaded
with horses, bulls, and calves. Cowboys and cowgirls following their GPS directions through quiet
country roads and small towns. Around the arena, vendors setting up to offer BBQ, pizza, hot dogs,
funnel cakes, ice cream, and all the favorite treats. A few more selling hats, belts, and
sought-after Rodeo accessories.

For the smallest Rodeo fans, the 4-H Kiddie Korral is the place to start the night. Face painting,
roping practice, games, balloons are sure to excite the little buckaroos. This year the bounce
house may be a destination to check out and explore. All around family-friendly fun for a down-
home good time. At the 4-H Booth just inside the gate, welcoming youth and 4-H club leaders sharing
the impact of the 4-H program. Growing the next generation of community leaders through
citizenship, leadership, and service.

Behind the lights, fun, and energy is a mission. The “why” this event comes to our community every
year. It’s because of the Citrus County 4-H Foundation directors. A group of dedicated men and
women that give of their time, talents, and energy to support the future of young people in our
community. Over the past 26 years, they have advocated for the youth in Citrus County, supporting
our community as strong promoters for positive youth development with collaboration and resource
development. As a result, 4-H programs are open and available to all youth through 4-H club
membership, school enrichment, camps, and workshops.

You might ask yourself: “Does 4-H make a difference in the lives and futures of youth in our
community?” Yes, it does!! In fact, 4-H youth development impacts the lives of young people across
the county, state, and nation. When compared to their peers, young people in 4-H are:

o Four times more likely to make contributions to their communities
o Two times more likely to be civically active
o Two times more likely to make healthier choices
o Two times more likely to participate in science programming during out-of-school time

Interested in learning more about becoming a 4-H member or adult volunteer? Contact the UF/IFAS
Extension Citrus County office and ask for Miss Marnie, 4-H Agent. 4-H is the positive youth
development program of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Science
(UF/IFAS), and we impact over 3000 youth in Citrus County every year through membership in 4-H
Clubs, school enrichment, and summer day-camp programs.