Toledo Techs 4-H Club pictured with their 2023 service project of filling buckets with information and treats as a thank you to farmers during harvest. The buckets are then distributed to local cooperatives to be handed out. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

TOLEDO – Enrollment opens on September 1 for Tama County 4-H. This year’s theme, “Beyond Ready,” highlights the program’s dedication to building a generation that’s equipped for the future while being met where they are today. This year, 4-H is focused on helping youth be ready to lead, ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to conquer.

“‘Beyond Ready’ really captures what 4-H is all about – equipping youth with the skills and resilience to not just face life’s challenges but to thrive,” said Katie Lubbert, 4-H youth program specialist with Iowa 4-H. “Our programs create opportunities for exploration and discovery, helping young people connect with who they truly are. Whether they’re drawn to traditional 4-H project areas like agriculture or newer fields like entrepreneurship, technology, or the arts, 4-H is focused on getting them ‘Beyond Ready’ for the future. It’s not just about classroom learning; it’s about building real-world skills that prepare them for careers and life.”

As 4-H continues to evolve to meet the needs of today’s youth, the program remains steadfast in its mission to help young people develop critical life skills, including leadership, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are essential for personal success and for making a meaningful impact in their communities.

“4-H members are known for stepping up and making a real difference in their communities,” said Jenny Hulme, Tama County Youth Coordinator.

With a variety of opportunities available across all 99 counties in Iowa, 4-H ensures that youth from all backgrounds – whether from urban neighborhoods or rural communities – have access to experiences that shape them into their true selves. Supported by caring adult volunteers, 4-H youth are prepared not just for the future, but for the challenges of today as well.

Tama County 4-H Clubs are excited to kick off the 2024-2025 year. Clubs offered for 4-12th graders in Tama County are the following: Clutier Cowboys and Cowgirls, Buckingham Boosters (meets in Traer), Toledo Techs, Toledo Wide Awakes, Garwin Roughriders, Young Guns (meets in Toledo and is the shooting sports club) and Wolfcreek Whirlwinds (meets in Gladbrook). Each club creates their own yearly program of activities. In addition to the clubs, the Tama County Extension Office provides opportunities for all youth (enrolled in 4-H or not) to participate in monthly workshops, library programs, and summer camps.

For more information about joining your local Iowa 4-H Youth Development program as a 4-H member or adult volunteer, visit www.extension.iastate.edu/tama or contact the Tama County Extension Office at 641-484-2703 or jhulme@iastate.edu.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/diversity/ext.