The 40 Developmental Assets identify the critical qualities, experiences and relationships that help young people become competent, caring and responsible adults. Caring is one those assets that 4-H members can master through community service.  According to the Search Institute, young people who place a high value on caring are more likely to promote and model positive rather than negative behaviors. 

The Shelby County 4-H Teen Council members are learning these important skills through their involvement in the council.  The members determine what activities and projects they want to conduct under the guidance of the 4-H Agent and 4-H Program Assistant.  Each year their main focus is community service.  This year they decided to help a local family in need at Christmas.  Teen Council members planned and conducted several fundraisers to raise funds for the projects including a luncheon, bake sale and raising pumpkins to sell.  

The council members partnered with the Family Resource Center (FRC) at Clear Creek Elementary to identify a family in need.  As a result of their successful fundraising efforts, the youth were able to purchase Christmas presents and a large food basket for the family.  The youth planned and went shopping for the items.  The gifts included necessities the kids needed such as socks, shoes and winter clothes but they also made sure there were toys and games for the kids as well.  The 4-Hers picked out the items and made sure they spent within the budget for all the purchases.

The family was not identified, but the FRC Director relayed the heartfelt thanks of the mother when she picked up the items.  Because of the 4-H Teen Council, the kids would have presents under the tree.  More importantly, the food basket came at a time when food was scarce and filled a vital need.  The mother was in tears.

The council members were proud of their work and the feeling of accomplishment for helping others.  They cared about others in the community and were able to make a difference.  These young people want to continue this project each year and already have fundraisers planned to reach their goal.  They have learned the importance of caring and want to continue helping others.   Learning to care for others will help these 4-H members become competent, caring, responsible adults that give back to their community.