This has been an undeniably tough and traumatic year – especially for our nation’s youth. We need your help today to ensure this year doesn’t define their future. You can help kids discover not only what they want to be, but?who?they want to be with 4-H.
This year has put a spotlight on the barriers holding kids back like inequality, internet access, and mental health. But right now, you can help kids discover not only what they want to be, but who they want to be By supporting 4-H’s #FOURWARD Fund, you can provide all kids with the mentors, learning experiences, and sense of belonging they need now more than ever.
4-H member, Maria Lonneman, was hard at work preparing for a March 2020 state 4-H event where she would lead a group of 4-H’ers to create weighted blankets for youth with autism. When COVID-19 led to a canceled event, Maria wasted no time to change course and find a new project to address the current crisis using her sewing skills.
To date, Maria has created hundreds of masks for children at Pediatric Partners and St. Luke’s in Cleveland, OH, and has begun creating adult masks for her local hospital.
“I enjoy thinking that I might possibly have saved a parent or grandparent because a child had their face covered by one of my masks,” Maria said. “4-H prepared me for this work by teaching me to give back to my community, by using my hands for larger service.”
If you are able, join us in supporting 4-H to help us provide resources to families, and 4-H’ers like Maria, who need it the most.
You can find out more info and donate here.
