Celebrating the youth PHILANTHROPY INITIATIVE

BY CALLIE LEHMAN, ANNUAL GIVING MANAGER, AND MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

To celebrate the tradition of youth philanthropy in Kansas 4-H, clubs from across the state practice generosity by making a philanthropic gift each year. When clubs make a gift to support the youth philanthropy initiative, they are recognized as Gavel Club members. Gavel Club is a recognition society that celebrates the generosity of 4-H clubs across the state.

In 2022, Kansas 4-H youth launched the Accessibility Fund! For more than 115 years, Kansas 4-H has been committed to enhancing accessibility to 4-H experiences for current and new members.

This fund will support the financial, physical, social and emotional needs of Kansas youth. Here are some examples of how they envision enhancing accessibility for current and future 4-H members:

● Providing financial assistance to cover the 4-H enrollment fee for a member in need

● Paving trails at Rock Springs Ranch so a camper with physical limitations can participate in all camp experiences

● Online access to educational programs for 4-H members across the state

Kansas 4-H clubs have raised more than $36,000 for the Accessibility Fund! To join youth in supporting this effort, you can make a gift to support the accessibility fund at kansas4hfoundation.org/give/accessibility. Your gift will help achieve their goal of raising $40,000 to launch the accessibility fund! The Kansas 4-H Foundation’s Impact Committee will collaborate with Youth Leadership Council members to determine the method for distributing the funds.

“The accessibility fund is essential for Kansas 4-H,” said Channing Dillinger, Stevens County 4-H member and 2022 Youth Philanthropy Ambassador. “Because 4-H has taught youth like me essential life skills, I want to help share 4-H with everyone! Generous support will allow many others the opportunity to experience all of the great things 4-H provides.”

If you feel inspired to support the youth with a gift to the Accessibility Fund, you can give securely online by scanning the QR code!