Thursday, July 23, 2009

4-H Makes a Difference Everyday


Wednesday is traditionally the hands to service day for 4-H members attending State 4-H Congress. This year was no different as hundreds of 4-Her's from around the state descended on a variety of nonprofit organizations and did anything and everything they could to leave a positive impression on each organization, their clients, and all the citizens of North Carolina.

Robeson County had the opportunity to join forces with Rowan, Polk, Rutherford, and Harnett Counties to make a major difference for UNC-TV. UNC-TV is a public television station located in Research Triangle Park. Like other public television stations UNC-TV is funded through contributions from viewers, corporate sponsors, and volunteers who give their time for various opportunities. Our rather large group took over several areas of the station to lend a whole bunch of hands. In the conference room we took over stuffing envelopes, and getting ready for a mass mailing. In the library we helped arrange books. In the office we helped make copies, and collated paperwork. Outside we washed vehicles, mats and 'lil Roo. For those of you who have been to the state fair you have probably seen the gigantic inflatable kangaroo that greets folks at the fair. Yes, every once in awhile that kangaroo needs a bath, and we had the fun of doing that as part of our service.

Before we left we presented several UNC-TV employees who helped us get the job done, centennial pins and took a group photo of the entire gang. They gave us all water bottles and thanked us for a job well done. Let me also add I was particularly proud of our youth who took part in this project. All day they smiled, asked what else they could do, and had the best attitude of any Congress delegation I have been a part of. They got the job done and left the impression that Robeson County youth are polite hard workers who want to make a positive difference in their world and learn while they are doing it. It was truly a privilege working with them as they accomplished a great deal today.

The afternoon contained one of the youth's favorite activities, free time. They voted to go to the mall and shop and look. After free time we travelled to Johnston County to enjoy a performance by the 4-H Performing Arts Troupe. The Troupe is made up of 4-H members from around the state and they only had six days to practice and put together an original musical performance. The performance highlighted the incredible history and present of 4-H and was absolutely incredible. Robeson County will be purchasing a recorded copy of the performance so that we can share this remarkable performance and talent showcase with all of you.

Stay tuned because we aren't done yet...it is going to be one heck of a celebration on Thursday and we have a lot of business yet to complete.

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