4-H Celebrating National 4-H Week Oct. 6-12 With SPARK Club Dollar & Sense

(BEDFORD) – Lawrence County 4-H will observe National 4-H Week Oct. 6 – Oct. 12 by showcasing the incredible experiences that 4-H offers young people.

The theme of this year’s National 4-H Week is “Inspire Kids to Do,” which highlights how 4-H encourages kids to take part in hands-on learning experiences in areas such as health, science, agriculture, and civic engagement.

Lesley Lodmell, Lawrence County Extension Educator- 4-H and Youth Development

Lesley Lodmell, Lawrence County Extension Educator- 4-H and Youth Development says the positive environment provided by 4-H mentors ensures that kids in every county in the country – from urban neighborhoods to suburban schoolyards to rural farming communities – are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles and are empowered with the skills to lead in life and career.

Older youth are encouraged to take leadership roles in their club, as they serve as club officers and are role models for the younger members and as junior leaders.

In addition to the traditional year-round program, 4-H offers a variety of short term experiences around certain topics called SPARK Clubs.

A SPARK Club is a short-term club that provides an experience for a specified topic.

“These are lead by volunteers who are knowledgeable and passionate about the topic,” says Lodmell.

SPARK Clubs must meet for at least six hours, but the schedule depends on what fits the content best. Some may meet for one day or some may meet on multiple evenings.

These clubs are open to all Lawrence County youth, whether they currently are a 4-H member or not. Participants will get to join 4-H as part of this experience

“Join us for three days during fall break for Dollar & Sense, to learn how to manage your finances,” she added. “Participants will learn through exciting guest speakers, shopping and cooking, and field trips tailored to their age group.”

The class will be held at the extension office on Oct. 16, 17 and 18 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. and is open for any Lawrence County youth in grades 7-12.

Registration is limited to the first 15 participants and must be done by 4 p.m. on October 7.

The cost of the course is $30. The fee includes 4-H membership (and access to all of our clubs and events) for the upcoming year, lunches, and class materials.

Register by stopping by the extension office or call 812-275-4623 or emailing lodmell@purdue.edu

Other events happening this month include:

Enrollment for the 2019/2020 4-H program year is now open. Youth in grades K-12 can enroll in the Lawrence County 4-H program by contacting the Extension Office at 924 16th St or call 812-275-4623 or visiting https://www.4honline.com/

Tractor Supply will be hosting the Paper Clover Fundraising Campaign on October 9-20.

To participate in the Fall Paper Clover campaign, Tractor Supply customers and team members can purchase a paper clover at the Bedford Store. Customers also have the opportunity to donate online when making a purchase at TractorSupply.com.

Each donation benefits youth in Lawrence County, providing scholarships for numerous state-level 4-H programs and for programs and events.