The Pledge - Fall 2023

THE PLEDGE KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION

FALL 2023

ENROLLMENT IS OPEN! SHARE THE KANSAS 4-H LINK: www.kansas4-h.org/resources/4-h-online

CONTENTS FEATURES KANSAS 4-H MARKS 100 YEARS OF DISCOVERY DAYS

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HEALTHY BLUE, HEALTHY YOU: NEW HEALTHY LIVING INITIATIVE LAUNCHES

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FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO: KANSAS 4-H PROVIDES SOLUTIONS AND IMPANT

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TRISHA CASH INDUCTED INTO NATIONAL 4-H HALL OF FAME

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EXPERIENCE UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY CAMP ADVENTURES AT ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

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DONORS GIVE THE GIFT OF CAMP & EMPOWER YOUTH TO THRIVE

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PHILANTHROPIC GIFTS AIM TO ENHANCE OUTDOOR RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES

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KANSAS 4-H STAY CONNECTED

ROLE OF PHILANTHROPY IN RENOVATING TEEN LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY

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Kansas 4-H began in 1905 when organized groups of youth came together to “learn by doing.”

In 1914, the Smith-Lever Act established the Cooperative Extension System connected to Land Grant universities and nationalized 4-H as a positive youth development program. As Kansas 4-H grew, a national trend for 4-H camping was growing, and Kansas 4-H Clubs purchased Rock Springs Ranch in 1946.

In November 1952, a committee of Kansans convened to determine what entity should hold the title of Rock Springs. With a vision for providing educational opportunities for Kansas youth, this committee created the Kansas 4-H Foundation as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. In addition to holding the title for the property of Rock Springs, early Foundation goals included international programs, leader training and advancement of Rock Springs Ranch.

The Foundation continues to partner with the Kansas 4-H program to meet the evolving needs of Kansas youth and develop future leaders. We acknowledge and appreciate our longtime 4-H friends. Their lifetime of generosity creates new opportunities for the youth of Kansas.

ON THE COVER: Youth campers navigate the Leadership Adventure Course at Rock Springs Ranch.

PHOTO BY HANA NELSON, PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN AT ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

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Kansas 4-H marks 100 Years of

DISCOVERY DAYS AT K-STATE

BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

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As part of the 100th anniversary of Discovery Days (formerly known as 4-H Round-Up) at K-State, the Kansas 4-H Foundation hosted the Emerald Circle celebration in June at the K-State Student Union and K-State Alumni Center. This event celebrated the philanthropic roots of Kansas 4-H and acknowledged the accomplishments of the 2022 State Project Award winners, highlighting their commitment to leadership, project-based learning and community service.

“Earning a State Project Award is a significant achievement within the Kansas 4-H community, showcasing the determination of these young individuals,” said Dr. Sarah Maass, the state 4-H leader. “This achievement transforms the lives of members and positively influences the communities these youth serve.”

As part of the evening, attendees were able to interact with the awardees and their families as well as hear from speakers including 4-H youth leaders and guest speaker Dan Meers, the mascot of the Kansas City Chiefs. Crystal and Steven Miles, 4-H alumni who attended this year, said they appreciated the event.

“This event allows for opportunities to engage with the young people and their families who are volunteering to better their communities as well as share strengths, listen, and learn from other participants,” Crystal said. “We really enjoyed the conversation with the project winners and their families. The keynote speaker was inspiring with his message of ‘Life can be like a coin, spend it wisely.’”

Crystal was a 4-H member in Leavenworth County. She was involved in project areas including horticulture, forestry,

land conservation, creative fiber arts and sewing. Steven was a 4-H member in Osage County where he raised livestock, rode horses and participated in livestock judging.

Crystal and Steven first met at Kansas 4-H Round-Up, which made celebrating the 100th year of this immersive experience even more meaningful. They said events like these demonstrate the value in Dan Meers, the Kansas City Chiefs supporting Kansas 4-H. Mascot (KC Wolf), speaks to a room “We choose to donate full of 4-H youth at the 2023 Discovery Days event. to Kansas 4-H because it empowers youth, who learn by doing,” Crystal said. “We are excited to be part of something lasting to create life skills for Kansas youth.”

2023 Discovery Days participants pose for the traditional group photo.

Ian Dunn, 2023 Kansas 4-H Youth Council Member, facilitates a community conversation sponsored by Healthy Blue.

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Healthy Blue, Healthy You

PLEDGING OUR HEALTH TO BETTER LIVING

BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Kansas 4-H launched a new program “Healthy Blue, Healthy You” focused on investing in the mental health and well-being of Kansas youth at the 100th year of Discovery Days. As a part of this program, a community conversation with more than 250 Kansas 4-H youth and volunteers was facilitated by Kansas Charmekia Martin, director of growth Youth Leadership Council members in and engagement for Healthy Blue, spoke to the youth attendees and the K-State Student shared the importance of mental Union ballroom. health issues nationwide.

The partnership with Healthy Blue aims to create and deliver solutions that respond to the health needs of youth. By hosting a community conversation, youth brainstormed topics including what it means to be healthy, what activities lead to healthy behaviors and the barriers that keep youth from being healthy.

Amy Sollock, 4-H youth development specialist in southwest Kansas, said this was the first of many opportunities for youth to participate in this program. Through partnerships like this, youth are encouraged to share their views on what it looks like to live a healthy lifestyle, issues they may struggle with, and more.

“We really want to come together and create a space for youth to have meaningful conversations,” Sollock said. “We want to put youth in a position where they tell us what they see as a priority for their mental and physical well-being. Then, based on what they tell us, we’ll be able to put a plan together on how we want to address those topics.”

Charmekia Martin, director of growth and engagement for Healthy Blue, said this is the largest donation Healthy Blue has made in the state of Kansas.

“We have faith in Kansas 4-H youth,” she said. “We are proud to say that this is the largest check we have been able to contribute to one organization in order to benefit the entire state of Kansas. These youth are the young, bright and innovative stars here in the state of Kansas and are the ones

To learn more about the partnership between Kansas 4-H and Healthy Blue, scan the QR code. we can talk to about making change as it relates to mental health.”

There will be a follow-up community conversation at the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Forum in November at Rock Springs Ranch, and program leaders will continue to collect feedback from 4-H members across the state. In 2024, Sollock said she plans to implement an action plan to improve the health and wellness of youth across the state.

Martin said Healthy Blue is pleased to be able to support health and well being for youth in Kansas while partnering with Kansas 4-H in the creation of this new and innovative program.

“We are very excited about this healthy living initiative,” Martin said. “We look forward to Kansas 4-H youth taking this information they learn about healthy living and helping bring some of the ideas they have to life in their home communities.”

Charmekia Martin, director of growth and engagement for Healthy Blue, presenting a check to Kansas 4-H Youth Council Members Sukesh Kamesh, Emma Littich, and Elizabeth “Ellie” Seeger.

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Kansas 4-H provides

SOLUTIONS & IMPACT

Kansas 4-H is not just the largest positive youth development organization; it is a solution. I think we all would agree that 4-H teaches youth problem solving, critical thinking, and leadership. We consistently hear from employers that hiring 4-H alumni is always a good choice. Industry MINDY R. WEIXELMAN leaders reference how PRESIDENT/CEO work ethic and leadership skills set them apart from other employees.

Within this issue, I am thrilled to share examples of the impact Kansas 4-H youth are having on our communities and the future of our state.

One of the key areas where Kansas 4-H shines is in preparing our future workforce. Through initiatives like Discovery Days, Kansas 4-H provides youth with meaningful opportunities to explore their interests and develop their future careers.

A cornerstone of Kansas 4-H is helping youth find their spark. Through mentorship programs and collaborations with industry leaders, we introduce youth to potential careers. By giving them a glimpse into various industries, we broaden their horizons and empower them to make informed choices about their career pathway.

I hope you will feel particularly inspired by reading a story about a youth-led community conversation that took 6

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place at Discovery Days. Through generous philanthropic partners like Healthy Blue, more than 250 4-H members were empowered to identify current challenges that youth are facing and actively participate in finding solutions. The results of their work will have a direct impact in addressing critical health issues and also strengthening existing foods and nutrition programs and other important health and wellness initiatives.

Partnerships like the generous gift from the Jack Goldstein Foundation dedicate resources to Kansas 4-H programs that support outdoor recreation and conservation education at Rock Springs Ranch. Through these partnerships, we are shaping a generation that pledges their health to better living for our clubs, communities, country and world.

Every gift you make to support Kansas 4-H youth leads to more vibrant communities and a stronger Kansas. Your contributions are not just investments in an organization; they are investments in a generation of young leaders who will undoubtedly make a difference in our state and beyond.

Mindy R. Weixelman President/CEO, Kansas 4-H Foundation

Feel free to contact Mindy at mindy@ks4h.org or call the Foundation office at 785-775-0123.

Youth leaders advance KANSAS 4-H MISSION

BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Channing Dillinger is a sophomore in high school and a member of the Wranglers 4-H Club in Stevens County.

In her role as a youth philanthropy ambassador last year, Dillinger had the opportunity to leave a lasting statewide impact by launching the Accessibility Fund along with her peers.

“I feel as if I left an CHANNING DILLINGER impact on many others and am grateful for the 2023 YPA opportunity to continue to use my voice to help support Kansas 4-H in order to impact even more youth,” she said.

Her 4-H project areas include livestock, crops, woodworking and welding. Her favorite area is livestock because she gets to learn the production and business behind it.

“My most meaningful memory in 4-H was when my sister and I held a bucket calf clinic,” she said. “One little girl didn’t have a good grip, and her calf got loose. She chased him all the way to the fairgrounds before a group of cowboys roped it, and she did not lose her tight grip on that rope the rest of the time. This taught me to always hold on, never let go.”

Accessibility Fund Update: Kansas 4-H clubs have reached their initial goal of $40,000 for the Accessibility Fund! The Kansas 4-H Foundation’s Impact Committee is collaborating with Youth Leadership Council members to determine the method for distributing the funds. To join youth in supporting this effort, you can make a gift to support the Accessibility Fund by scanning the QR code or visiting kansas4hfoundation.org/ give/accessibility.

What is a Youth Philanthropy Ambassador (YPA)?

Since 4-H began in Kansas in 1905, youth have been giving back in unique and generous ways. The Kansas 4-H Foundation partners with Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council each year to select youth philanthropy ambassadors who help advance the mission of 4-H through philanthropyl

Carson is a senior in high school and a member of the Cardinal 4-H club in Saline County.

Throughout his many years of 4-H, he has been able to see all the positive impacts Kansas 4-H has had on himself and others.

His 4-H projects areas include communications, beef, CARSON FOUARD and swine. His favorite 2023 YPA area is communications because he has learned more about public speaking and how it can be used in many different ways throughout his other projects.

“Being in 4-H has allowed me to help youth younger than me in both small groups and large groups and really taught me that I enjoy being with kids,” he said. “I feel that it is now my responsibility to continue the work of 4-H’ers to build relationships with these donors to continue their good work.”

His favorite 4-H memory is being a camp counselor at 4-H camp at Rock Springs Ranch.

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Trisha Cash (pictured in the middle), whose 39-year career with the Kansas 4-H Foundation, was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame on Oct. 9.

Trisha Cash inducted into

NATIONAL 4-H HALL OF FAME

BY K-STATE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION NEWS SERVICE

Trisha Cash, whose 39-year career with the Kansas 4-H Foundation included planning programs and events that benefitted countless Kansas 4-H youth and fundraising efforts that inspired generous support for the organization, was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame on Oct. 9.

Cash was among 13 inductees honored during the ceremony in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Bill Riley, former president of the Kansas 4-H Foundation and National Hall of Fame Laureate (2011), attended the ceremony to honor Cash.

“The results of Trisha’s work are significant with respect to citizenship, leadership, mentorship and character.

She has been fully dedicated to the 8

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importance of 4-H and its positive impact on Kansas youth,” Riley said.

Cash began as an administrative assistant for the Kansas 4-H Foundation in 1974, advanced to Director of Fund Development and Special Events, and retired in 2013 as the assistant director. Among numerous accomplishments, she is credited with creating a statewide cookbook highlighting recipes from 4-H members and families.

“I am so humbled and honored by this recognition,” Cash said.

“The thing that I look back on with gratitude and appreciation was being part of the dream team - working with the incredible Foundation staff, state 4-H office specialists, volunteers and agents.”

TRISHA CASH 4-H HALL OF FAME MEMBER

Other leadership roles and accomplishments include: ● She was part of the leadership team that facilitated the first successful multi-million dollar 4-H campaign in the U.S., netting $12.8 million – exceeding the Foundation’s goal of $10 million. ● Managing the inventory of county 4-H medals, Key Awards and 4-H leader recognition items for 30 years. 4-H records indicate that Cash managed 250 internal accounts for awards, projects and events. ● Leadership in every Kansas ‘Friends of 4-H Day,’ a former annual event held at Rock Springs Ranch. ● Organizing and hosting Gourmet Getaway, an event that drew more than 2,200 guests and raising more than $100,000 for the Kansas 4-H program. ● Chairing the state’s Emerald Circle Awards banquet for 25 years, creating an “Academy Awards” style event to recognize youth, parents, donors and mentors.

Former Kansas 4-H Foundation president Gordon Hibbard shared: “Her insatiable interest in others and desire to bring a first class touch to events with an ability to go the extra mile to recognize donors is how I remember Trisha.”

Cash mentored many interns and student workers during her tenure. She said she has many memories, but her favorite was being able to create memorable moments for donors and youth.

To learn more information about the National 4-H Hall of Fame, including current and past recipients, please visit http://www.4-h-hof.com or scan the QR code below.

“I believe creativity takes courage,” Cash said.

“Whenever you’re wanting to create or change something, you’re putting your idea out there and everyone has opinions about it. That’s how things get better - through creative change.”

Post-retirement, Cash serves as housemother to the K-State Acacia fraternity.

She and the other 12 inductees were nominated by their home states for inclusion into the National 4-H Hall of Fame, which was established in 2002 as part of the Centennial Project of the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents in partnership with the National 4-H Council and the 4-H National Headquarters of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

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Experience unforgettable Family Camp

ADVENTURES AT ROCK SPRINGS RANCH

BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Family camp at Rock Springs Ranch offers a unique opportunity to escape everyday life and spend quality time with your loved ones in an outdoor setting. This immersive camping experience allows families to explore nature together and foster a sense of togetherness.

Andrea Feldkamp, who was enrolled in Kansas 4-H for 12 years in Ellis County, Kansas, and then later worked as the 4-H Extension Agent in Riley County, attended family camp in 2023 alongside her husband and three children. She said the experience is not like any other experience you can have, and the price to participate is affordable for most family budgets.

“We selected family camp as a way to explore Rock Springs before our two boys attended 4-H camp for the first time this past summer. We wanted them to learn how to find their way around at camp and become comfortable with the environment,” she shares. “The smaller group and laid-back schedule allowed us to explore Rock Springs at our pace.”

She said the traditional day-to-day life routines are not present at camp, so it frees your family up to explore and enjoy the experience. Her kids enjoyed the campfire time, and some of the high ropes activities they were able to try as part of their time at camp. All three kids voted for canoes as the number one favorite activity that they can’t wait to do again.

“At Rock Springs Ranch, families can look forward to a wide range of exciting activities and opportunities for connection.

From engaging in team-building challenges and outdoor adventures to participating in arts and crafts workshops, there is something for Andrea Feldkamp, who attended family everyone to enjoy,” camp this year, shared this photo of her said Letha Causby, two boys climbing the rockwall at Rock Springs Ranch. managing director at Rock Springs Ranch. “Family camp also offers the perfect environment for families to network with others, fostering new friendships and creating a supportive community.”

To register for family camp and secure your spot in 2024, visit www.rockspringsranch4hcamp.org.

Register for summer camp and family camp by visiting www. rockspringsranch4hcamp.org or learn more by scanning the QR code!

Andrea Feldkamp, who was enrolled in Kansas 4-H for 12 years in Ellis County, Kansas, and then later worked as the 4-H Extension Agent in Riley County, attended family camp in 2023 alongside her husband and three children.

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Kansas 4-H campers showcase

PROJECTS AT STATE FAIR

Kansas 4-H campers from Rock Springs Ranch showcased their skills at the Kansas State Fair. Here are a few highlights of the 4-H projects campers submitted to the fair!

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Donors give the gift of camp & empower

YOUTH TO THRIVE

BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

As the state 4-H center, Rock Springs Ranch is dedicated to empowering youth ages 8-17 years old through immersive camp experiences each year. Extensive research on positive youth development has shown that summer camp plays a vital role in meeting essential needs of youth such as belonging, independence, generosity, and mastery.

Similar to scholarships that provide access to education, the Kansas 4-H Foundation has established a statewide campership fund that ensures affordability for youth from all 105 counties in Kansas. By increasing accessibility to 4-H through a summer camp experience, camperships open doors for youth who would otherwise miss out on the transformative benefits of camp.

“The benefits of camp are numerous, but the most significant advantage is the immersive experience it offers, meeting the current needs of youth,” said Letha Causby, managing director of Rock Springs Ranch.

“Through camp, young individuals have more opportunities to try, fail, try again, explore, and develop lasting friendships. Rock Springs Ranch is committed to extending access to camp and ensuring that all youth have a 4-H camp experience.”

Matthew Kelso understands firsthand the value of a 4-H camping experience. He was a 12-year member of the Eudora 4-H Club in Douglas County, and he attended 4-H camp every year possible.

“Throughout my time in the Kansas 4-H program, I served in capacities ranging from Junior Song Leader of our club at 10 years old to serving a term on the Youth 12

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Summer camp at Rock Springs Ranch provides an immersive experience for youth ages 8-17. Among their favorite activities while attending summer camp is swimming at the pool located near the spring for which the camp is named.

Leadership Council during my senior year of high school,” he said. “I grew to become confident in who I am and what I stand for … These values continue to be with me years later as I continue moving through life.”

He said that by attending 4-H camp, it helped him develop independence being away from home for a few days as well as encouraged him to make friends with people he otherwise would not have met or interacted with. 4-H camp was the highlight of his summers!

Kelso is now a practicing veterinarian in Eudora, Kansas.

He believes it is important to philanthropically support the 4-H camp experience in order for all youth across the state of Kansas to have meaningful.

“I think back on my years as a camper, and I would not trade those

memories for the world,” he said. “I hope that every kid with an interest in camp gets a chance to go. Supporting camperships at Rock Springs is a great way to ensure that more youth than ever before get the 4-H camp experience.”

By donating to the campership fund, individuals and organizations play a critical role in shaping the lives of young individuals, providing them with unforgettable memories and invaluable life skills. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact and helps Rock Springs Ranch fulfill its mission of empowering youth.

Doug and Janet Johnson, 4-H alumni, also choose to philanthropically support 4-H camp through the campership fund. Doug grew up on a farm in Iowa where his 4-H experience was primarily

focused around raising cattle. Being a 4-H member played a role in his decision to attend K-State because of the encouragement of some cattle show judges who were from K-State. Janet was a 4-H member in Stafford County and participated in a variety of projects as well as local, state and national 4-H events.

Janet grew up attending 4-H camp at Rock Springs Ranch and eventually joined the summer staff while attending college. Overall, the Johnsons choose to give back to 4-H youth through camperships because of the opportunities that were given to them when they were enrolled in 4-H. “We want to give youth the opportunity to have fun in a safe, positive, affirming environment where they can try new activities, meet new friends and gain self-confidence through their camp experience,” they said.

For more information about how you can provide youth access to camp, contact Lindsey Pannbacker, vice president of development, at the Kansas 4-H Foundation by calling 785-775-0123 or via email at lindsey@ks4h.org.

Rock Springs Ranch campers enjoy the newly constructed Leadership Adventure Course as one of the many activities available during summer camp.

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Outdoor recreation is a center of excellence at Rock Springs Ranch and fundamental to Kansas 4-H because it teaches youth the importance of staying active and healthy.

Philanthropic gifts aim to enhance

OUTDOOR RECREATION

BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

The Kansas 4-H Foundation is proud to announce a transformative philanthropic gift from the Jack Goldstein Charitable Trust, aimed at advancing outdoor recreation and conservation education at Rock Springs Ranch, the state 4-H center. With a generous gift of $500,000, the Jack Goldstein Charitable Trust seeks to empower and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards through targeted initiatives and programs.

Jack Goldstein was one of the most successful entrepreneurs in North Central Kansas. Jim Gordon, who serves as a trustee to the Goldstein Charitable Trust, said Goldstein left a legacy of charitable giving that outlives him by establishing a Foundation that supports many charities and nonprofits. One of his passions was the support for youth organizations like 4-H. “He wanted youth to have opportunities and experiences that he did not have growing up in the depression,” Gordon said. “The Charitable Trust continues this support by looking for organizations and activities that are unique and available to youth from the entire region.”

To date, the Trust has invested in two outdoor recreation projects at Rock Springs. In 2021 the Trust contributed to the Leadership Adventure Course and in 2012, the Trust contributed to the Cool Pool campaign, which transformed the pool into a zero entry pool making it more accessible to all.

“This year, the Trust was presented with another opportunity to help fund several projects at Rock Springs,” Gordon said. “The funding shows the importance that the Trust places in the 4-H program and Rock Springs Ranch.”

As the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to the

positive development of Kansas youth, Kansas 4-H has been at the forefront of fostering growth, leadership, and skillbuilding opportunities for thousands of young individuals.

With the support of the Jack Goldstein Charitable Trust, Rock Springs Ranch will further expand its impact and reach, enabling even more youth to experience the wonders and importance of outdoor activities.

Recognizing the significance of shooting sports in instilling discipline, responsibility, and safety, the Kansas 4-H Foundation will allocate a portion of the gift to enhance this rapidly growing outdoor recreation program. Inspired by the generosity of the Goldstein Charitable Trust, the National Wild Turkey Federation also contributed to this project with plans to construct a state-of-the-art 3-D Archery Range, ensuring participants have access to state-of-the-art facilities and training.

With a commitment to promoting outdoor exploration and accessibility, the Kansas 4-H Foundation will also focus on enhancing its trail systems as well as stream Studies and wetland education at Rock Springs Ranch.

“We are inspired by the legacy of Jack Goldstein, and are honored to benefit from his generosity,” said Kansas 4-H Foundation President/CEO Mindy Weixelman. “ This gift will have a positive impact on each young person who experiences Rock Springs Ranch. We are committed to being good stewards of our resources, and look forward to highlighting Mr. Goldstein’s legacy in our programming. We are also thankful to Kansas 4-H Foundation Trustee Jim Gordon for being such a loyal and dedicated champion for 4-H youth and Rock Springs Ranch.”

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stay connected

TO KANSAS 4-H

The Kansas 4-H family wants to celebrate when Kansas 4-H alumni and friends accomplish great things. Stay connected by sharing your updates and achievements with us at www.kansas4hfoundation.org/update KELLEY BENNETT TUEL, SALINE COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA ​​Kelley was recently recognized as the 2023 recipient of the Kansas Outstanding Biology Teacher Award. Kelley grew up in 4-H which inspired her passion for teaching others.

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Kelley was a County 4-H Kelley Bennett Tuel Ambassador and 12-year member of the Mentor 4-H Club in Saline County.

She most recently has been a parent volunteer in the Johnson County Livestock 4-H Club with one of her daughters.

CHANDRA PLATE, 4-H REGIONAL SPECIALIST Chandra Plate, northwest 4-H youth development specialist, was recently awarded the Excellence in Shooting Sports programming Award and the 2023 Distinguished Service Award by the National Association of Chandra Plate, Northwest 4-H Extension 4-H Youth Regional Specialist Development Professionals.

Chandra is a Nebraska 4-H alumna. She started her career at K-State Research and Extension in Reno County, Kansas and she has been involved in 4-H youth develoment as an Extension agent or volunteer for the last 32 years.

KANSAS 4-H MEAT JUDGING TEAM The Kansas 4-H Meat Judging Team claimed the 2023 National Championship recently.

This is back-to-back Championships for Kansas.

2023 Kansas 4-H Meat Judging Team

2023 VISUAL ARTS SELECTIONS Each year, the Kansas 4-H Foundation selects visual arts from the Kansas State Fair to be displayed at our office in Manhattan.

Congratulations to 2023 Visual Arts Selections displayed the following 4-H at the Kansas 4-H Foundation. members: ● Jonas Kern, Cottonwood District (stained glass) ● Brody Greenwood, Wabaunsee County (weaved basket) ● Victoria Hueser, Ottawa County (Indian Chief) ● Jaelyn Daily, Sunflower District (birch trees) PAIGE MENDOZA, GRAHAM COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA Paige Mendoza, who is the administrative assistant at the Geary County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, was recently awarded the prestigious Kansas Destination Specialist Award at the 2023 Kansas Tourism Conference.

Paige Mendoza Paige is a Graham County 4-H alumna.

SPONSOR A NATIONAL 4-H CONGRESS DELEGATE! Support Kansas 4-H youth delegates at National 4-H Congress as they develop leadership skills and represent Kansas in Atlanta, GA The history of the National 4-H Congress goes back more than one hundred years. Each year, Kansas 4-H sends state project award winners to the National 4-H Congress as a reward for their achievement. To help offset the expenses of the trip, the Kansas 4-H Foundation provides sponsorships for each 4-H member.

Will you support National 4-H Congress delegates by providing sponsorships to Kansas youth this year?

Contact Callie Lehman at callie@ks4h.org or call 785-775-0123 to sponsor a National 4-H Congress delegate today!

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DOUGLAS COUNTY 4-H HORTICULTURE TEAM The National Horticulture Judging Contest was recently held in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and the Kansas 4-H team of Douglas County 4-H members took 4th place overall.

All four members were among top 20 individuals.

in northeast Kansas, to provide educational demonstrations to schools and youth clubs in the Kansas City metro area.

Douglas County 4-H Horticulture Team at the National Horticulture Judging Contest.

Paisley is in the Boling 4-H Club in Leavenworth County.

The team’s Kansas Display Board placed third.

LORELEI, LEAVENWORTH COUNTY 4-H MEMBER Lorelei completed her leadership project working with Henry’s Haul, a nonprofit that collects new, single pack toy cars for Children’s Mercy in Kansas City. She gave presentations, created flyers and spoke with local businesses with the goal of collecting cars for children at Children’s Mercy.

ALEX FILBERT, PAWNEE COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA Alex was recognized as a NextGen Under 30 Kansas award recipient for Tourism. Alex is the executive director of the Larned Area Chamber of Commerce and Pawnee County Economic Development.

She is a Pawnee County 4-H alumna.

As the clothing and textiles junior project leader, Paisley developed a pattern from an older cover and Paisley with her 4-H project mentored other 4-H’ers as they worked together to make cage covers for the Birds of Prey.

Alex Filbert

PAISLEY, LEAVENWORTH COUNTY 4-H MEMBER Paisley completed her leadership project with Operation Wildlife, the largest publicly funded wildlife rehabilitation organization

She collected a grand total of 2,482 cars, which is about 1/3 of the annual need of Henry’s Haul.

Lorelei and her 4-H leadership project

Lorelei is in the Boling 4-H Club in Leavenworth County.

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KANSAS 4-H FOUNDATION 17

Role of philanthropy in renovating

TEEN LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY

BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

The area known as Stoneybrook Village at Rock Springs Ranch will soon be renovated with new windows, doors, and a heating and cooling system, but this space will continue to maintain its rustic charm as it is transformed into a teen leadership community. This community will foster a space for reflecting, adapting and applying what teens are learning while they attend summer camp at Rock Springs Ranch.

Donors like Lora Norquest are breathing new life into the cabins within this initiative, preserving memories while giving back to the 4-H community. For Lora, this initiative is more than a thoughtful gesture; it’s a tribute to her parents, Gary and Lorraine Kilgore, and an acknowledgment of the impact Kansas 4-H has had on her life.

Lora’s 4-H journey began in Neosho County as a 7-year-old. Engaged in many projects, she developed her skills raising livestock, sewing, gardening, and leadership.

Her dedication led her to become a state winner in

“I grew up on a small farm north of Topeka, and I entered 4-H when I was 7 years old in Shawnee County. 4-H camp at Rock Springs was almost always on the annual summer agenda. It definitely offered many growth lessons! Kansas 4-H offers teens a great opportunity to prepare for life as an adult. Discovering life hobbies as well as lessons like responsibility, friendships and working with others are there for the taking. Many times an adult or older teen mentor is there for assistance. I encourage Kansas youth to get a head start on building life skills through 4-H and Rock Springs Ranch!”

DEANNA SENTS, SHAWNEE COUNTY 4-H ALUMNAE 18

THE PLEDGE

Achievement, a moment that marked the continuation of her lifelong connection with 4-H. Her 4-H involvement continued through college and in adulthood as she became a State Master 4-H Volunteer, dedicating 25 years to guiding young minds in Finney County. Her children also embraced 4-H, following her path to becoming state 4-H award winners themselves.

Rock Springs Ranch holds a special place in Lora’s heart.

She fondly recalls her annual summer camp trips as well as her time as a camp counselor. Her parents shared their love of 4-H and Rock Springs Ranch with their family as they grew up. Their commitment was evident in their support for both biological and foster children, ensuring they experienced the transformative power of 4-H and Rock Springs Ranch.

“My parents were also State 4-H award winners, and they believed Kansas 4-H taught life skills and camping experiences you just don’t get every day,” Lora fondly recalls.

In honor of her parents, Lora made a philanthropic gift to renovate a cabin within the teen leadership community.

Through Norquest’s act of generosity, the teen leadership community will become a space where more life lessons are learned through 4-H at Rock Springs Ranch.

If you would like to join this effort by transforming a Stoneybrook cabin with a philanthropic gift, contact Lindsey Pannbacker, vice president of development, at the Kansas 4-H Foundation by calling 785775-0123 or via email at lindsey@ks4h.org .

Renovations to the Stoneybrook area will transform it into the future teen leadership community, which will provide a dedicated space for teens to reflect, adapt and apply leadership skills.

Where Friends Are Made & Adventure Happens!

Register for 4-H summer camp today! www.rockspringsranch4hcamp.org

1680 CHARLES PL SUITE 100 MANHATTAN, KS 66502 KANSAS4HFOUNDATION.ORG