Community service projects has been an important part of 4-H for many years. In 1927 the 4-H pledge was adopted and included the importance of service in the third line. “I pledge my Hands to larger service.” Ever since then, every time a 4-H member or volunteer recites the pledge, they are reminded of the importance of serving their “club, community, country and world”.

Due to recent floods in Nebraska, KY Extension was ask to join with the KY Department of Agriculture to collect items for Nebraska Flood victims and their animals.  The Barren County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development with the Barren County 4-H Council volunteered as a community service project to gather donations for the victims. After a mass media blitz, personal contacts and flyers the following organizations: Barren County Government, Glasgow City Government, Glasgow-Barren County Chamber of Commerce, Cave City Chamber of Commerce, Barren County Board of Education, Barren-Metcalfe Emergency Management, Barren  County Chapter of KY Cattleman’s Association, Veterinary clinics, Feed Stores, farmer’s, restaurants and local citizens assisted with the collection. 

Twenty- six 4-H members learned the true meaning of “My Hands to Larger Service” as they gathered tons of bagged cattle, dairy and livestock feed, pallets of medical supplies, 50 muck boots, pallets of buckets, bleach, detergent, paper products, canned foods, infant formula, hay, straw and other supplies. As approximately $18,700 in supplies were collected the 4-H members reinforced the true meeting of “for my club, community, country and world.”