In Owsley County, there is a growing need for community involvement and support for local families and youth, particularly during the holiday season.  Many families face financial difficulties, and there is a lack of structured opportunities for youth to engage in meaningful acts of kindness and service. According to the 2024 University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment results “Maximizing youth voices in issues that matter to them” was a “high need” among survey respondents in Owsley County. This gap in opportunities for service learning and community connection inspired the Owsley County 4-H clubs to take action, fostering a culture of giving and gratitude among the youth.

During the month of December, Owsley County 4-H clubs embraced the power of service learning, creating a ripple of kindness and generosity throughout the community. One of the key ways 4-H inspires youth is through service, and this month, the 4th and 5th grade 4-H members at Owsley County Elementary demonstrated the impact of service learning with heartwarming projects that touched both their peers and the community.

The “Kindness for Kindergarteners” service project was an outstanding success. Seventy-one 4-H members from the 4th and 5th grades came together to wrap gifts and write thoughtful cards for each Kindergartener at Owsley County Elementary. The initiative was a beautiful display of giving, as the 5th grade 4-H officers, with the help of a Teen Club member, playing the role of Santa, delivering gifts and cards to 65 excited young students. The joy on the Kindergarteners’ faces was a true testament to the power of kindness and community spirit.

The 4-H Dog Club and Junior Homemakers continued spreading cheer through their participation in the “Light up Booneville” parade. As part of a larger community event, various organizations decorated parade floats, and 4-H members walked their dogs in the procession while others passed out candy to enthusiastic onlookers. It was a fun and festive evening, showcasing the camaraderie and enthusiasm that the 4-H clubs foster in their youth.

The Junior Homemakers also made a significant impact, crafting thoughtful homemade gifts for their friends and families. They went above and beyond by writing over 50 Christmas cards for the teachers and staff at Owsley County Middle and High School. Their December club meeting focused on the importance of gratitude, teaching the youth not only to appreciate the efforts of others but also to actively give back to their community.

The 4-H Dog Club further demonstrated their commitment to service by creating over 30 handmade dog toys for local animal shelters. The members thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to give back to furry friends in need, spreading holiday cheer to the animals who often go unnoticed during the festive season.

As 2024 came to a close, Owsley County 4-H members wrapped up the year with a deep sense of gratitude. Through their various service projects, they not only gave back to their community but also strengthened their bonds with one another and learned valuable lessons in kindness, empathy, and leadership. The support of the community has been instrumental in their success, and the 4-H members expressed heartfelt thanks for the ongoing encouragement they receive. Participants gained valuable skills in service learning, teamwork, and community involvement. These initiatives were carried out with the support of community organizations and the leadership of 4-H adult leaders and members, with 4-H officers and Teen Club members playing central roles in organizing and executing the projects. These December projects highlight how 4-H continues to spark positive change in youth, inspiring them to become active citizens, leaders, and compassionate members of their community. The work of Owsley County 4-H clubs exemplifies the incredible difference young people can make when given the tools to succeed and the opportunity to give back.