After spending time brainstorming on how to get one of the best kept secrets out, 4-H, we decided to host a 4-H Kickoff. This was the perfect opportunity to show the community all the clubs and projects that Hopkins County 4-H has to offer. For the event, we rented bounce houses, had Hopkins County Adult Livestock Club provide hotdogs, and a volunteer from each club or project host a table. We hosted this event right before the 4-H season kicked off in the late summer and schools were just starting back.

Each volunteer leader of their club or project hosted a table to give the youth more information on their activities and share dates with them. This was a great opportunity for the parents/guardians to ask questions also about the purpose and what the expectations were of the program. At check-in, everyone signed in, received enrollment cards, and the first 125 people received a Hopkins County 4-H t-shirt. Doing this had people lining up before the start time because who does not want a free t-shirt. This was great advertisement because the shirts will be worn all throughout the county.

We had over 200 people in attendance and have plans to host this event every year. It helped get new enrollments and volunteers. Many people called the Extension Office to sign up or showing interest in programs being offered.