It’ National 4-H Week , October 2 – 8, 2022, and the Berrien County branch invites you to ‘Fall Into 4-H’ on Sunday, October 9th, at Jollay Orchards in Coloma. 4-H members and their families, and those interested in becoming 4-H members, are welcome to apple picking, hayrides, cider, doughnuts, and crafts, as our bountiful harvest season has arrived.
4-H youth programs began in the United States in the early 1900s, and though the first gathering was simply called “The Tomato Club”, the organization itself has grown into so much more. It is the largest youth organization in Michigan, and provides fun, educational opportunities to over 200,000 future leaders across the state every year.
“Kids who participate in 4-H obtain better grades, and are more likely to go to college and give back to their communities,” says Michigan 4-H. “True leaders aren’t born: they’re grown!”
The 4 H’s, Head, Heart, Hands, Health, are represented in its four-leaf clover symbol, and embodies the mission of this nationwide organization, “empowering youth with skills to lead for a lifetime.” 4-H isn’t just for kids who live on farms, 4-H is for everyone. With programs in Animal Science, Global & Cultural Education, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Life Skills, STEM, and more, the exciting curriculum made available by MSU Extension is life-changing.
There is no cost to join Michigan 4-H, though some projects require additional supplies and materials. 4-H programs are open to Youth aged five to nineteen, and adult/teen volunteers are always needed — your involvement in 4-H never has to end, no matter your age.
From 2 p.m to 4 p.m on Sunday, October 9th, Fall Into 4-H at Jollay Orchards, located at 1850 Friday Road in Coloma. The 7th generation U-Pick farm hosts fun activities all year, and in the Fall you can enjoy their haunted house, trick or treating, corn maze, apple picking, pond fishing, cider & doughnuts, and crafts! Entrance costs $10 per person and includes access to all activities, but this Saturday, enjoy free admission for current and future 4-H members.
‘The 4‑H experience teaches you responsibility, compassion, respect, and the value of hard work,” says Michigan 4-H. “It helps you become a confident kid, and adult.”
Current 4-H members can pre-register for ‘Fall Into 4-H’ at this link. And to find more information about the Michigan 4-H Youth program, please visit their website.
By Jocelyne Tuszynski, MOTM Contributor
