4-H Encourages Growth, Discovery
Lauderdale County 4-H member, Brielle, was homesick the first time she was away from home last summer at Junior 4-H Camp in Columbia, Tennessee.
However, with encouragement from fellow campers and counselors, she quickly began exploring the camp’s opportunities. She rediscovered her passion for crafts and developed a newfound love for wildlife and nature. She met new people and forged friendships.
“Brielle’s journey transformed from a daunting challenge to an enriching adventure, leaving her with cherished memories and a strengthened sense of community,” said Christian Hawbaker III, Lauderdale County 4-H agent.
The annual Junior 4-H Camp is one of many opportunities young people can experience when they become members.
“The primary mission of 4-H is positive youth development,” said Hawbaker. “Here in Lauderdale County, I hope to inspire, educate and enrich youth with diverse activities and opportunities through the 4-H program.”
4-H is part of Tennessee Extension, a community outreach initiative created by the University of Tennessee and Tennessee State University to improve lives across the state.
Lauderdale County’s history with extension services dates back to 1926, marking nearly a century of community support and education.
The 4-H Youth Development program is specifically designed to engage and educate youth, Hawbaker said.
“Through hands-on learning and development opportunities, 4-H has empowered generations of young people in Lauderdale County, fostering skills, knowledge and a sense of community.”
4-H is a part of the educational experience in Lauderdale County schools. Hawbaker visits every fourth through eighth grade classroom in Lauderdale County every month or two.
Every student can participate. Classrooms form clubs where students elect officers, fostering leadership and citizenship. The student-led clubs conduct meetings and organize local contests in areas like public speaking, photography and poster design.
Youth in 4-H receive a well-rounded education with lessons in agriculture, family consumer sciences, STEM and personal development, Hawbaker said.
Beyond the classroom, 4-H members have opportunities to participate in activities at the county, regional, state and national levels. They can join community groups to engage in livestock showmanship, wildlife judging and identification, shooting sports, culinary arts and more.
4-H in Lauderdale County also emphasizes active citizenship, encouraging members to serve and help others in their community, he said. Guided by the motto “to make the best, better,” the program aims to instill a lifelong commitment to improvement and community involvement in its members.
“I strive to create an atmosphere where kids are welcomed and encouraged to have fun,” Hawbaker said. “At the same time, I want to help them develop values of service and leadership. Hopefully, these values will be carried into their adulthood, just as growing up in 4-H has done for me.”
Hawbaker, who grew up in Henry County, joined 4-H in fourth grade. He became a teen leader and even earned a spot to attend the National 4-H Congress in Atlanta. “4-H drastically changed who I was,” he said. “I was quiet and soft-spoken. 4-H turned me into a leader, taught me how to be a speaker and gave me a love for education.
“Brielle’s journey at 4-H Camp encapsulates the spirit and mission of the 4-H program in Lauderdale County. From overcoming homesickness to discovering new passions and building friendships, her experience reflects the positive youth development that 4-H strives to achieve.”