4-H Week celebration begins Monday

CLOVIS — The Curry County Extension Office is celebrating 4-H Week beginning Monday, with open enrollment beginning Oct. 16 for the upcoming 4-H year.

The non-formal education program teaches life skills, environmental education, community services and youth issues.

According to information provided by the office, 4-H club work in New Mexico began in 1912, when the New Mexico Agricultural College and the Santa Fe railway ran an agricultural train on the Santa Fe Railway system throughout the state. By 1918, 4-H state enrollment reached more than 4,000 members.

Today, the organization has seven million youth members and more than 600,000 volunteer leaders, with New Mexico home to more than 30,000 youth, 4,000 volunteers and more than 200 projects available.

County 4-H Youth Development Agent Halee Prather credits the program for various professional and educational successes. The Texico High graduate graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural extension and education from New Mexico State University, and is now working on master’s from NMSU in agricultural economics and business.

“4-H has taught me dedication, leadership skills, and communication skills,” said Prather, who joined the extension office in June. “I believe that this program is beneficial to youth of all ages and backgrounds. There is something for everyone in 4-H and it is guaranteed to make a lasting impact on your life.”

Curry County 4-H Council President Jaryn Bruce of Melrose has been active in 4-H for about seven years.

“I have been provided many different opportunities through 4-H,” Bruce said. “4-H has helped me become a better leader in many different ways. Throughout my 4-H career I have been able to attend many events like Youth Get Away, Senior Leadership Retreat, and State 4-H Contest. I think 4-H is a great thing to do and it is really fun.”

Enrollment for the 2020-21 4-H year will continue through March 1.

Information: 575-763-6505.