Premier Greg Selinger and Manitoba’s legislative assembly welcomed 4-H members and leaders from across the province with a ‘4-H Day at the Legislature’ in celebration of the organization’s 100th anniversary.
“For 100 years, 4-H programs in rural communities have been helping youth build confidence and learn skills in agriculture, home making, public speaking and leadership,” said Selinger. “They have also given thousands of adult volunteers the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and give back to their communities.”
The 4-H movement first began as the Boys and Girls Club in 1913, when Roland, Man., formed the first club in Canada. That same year, seven other clubs were formed and soon had 470 members. Today 4-H is an international youth organization involving more than seven million members in 80 countries.
Selinger noted the Manitoba Agricultural Hall of Fame recently announced that 4-H leaders, as a group, were honoured as one of the 2013 inductees. This is only the second time a group has been recognized in this way since the formation of the Hall of Fame in 1973, the first group being pioneer women.
“I want to congratulate the Manitoba 4-H Council for its dedication and commitment to our rural youth and the impact it has had on thousands of children and adults alike,” said Selinger. “I particularly would like to thank all our volunteers who ensure so many young people enjoy a fun, educational and meaningful experience with 4-H, gaining skills that will enable them to become successful leaders in every walk of life.”
4-H has recently expanded its membership qualifications to include children from age seven through to adults aged 25.
