Achievement simply stated is accomplishing a set goal…and recognizing that you have accomplished the goal.  4-H’s long history puts emphasis on the importance of record-keeping to allow young people the opportunity to reflect on their accomplishments and the impact it has on their life.  Each fall, as one program year ends and another begins, 4-H achievement report forms are completed by 4-Hers’ and turned into the Extension Service office to be evaluated for recognition at the annual 4-H achievement awards program.   The pages of the form tell the story of their development in leadership, citizenship, community service, marketing and participation in 4-H.  Over the course of their 4-H “career,” these young people grow and develop as leaders and citizens with valuable life skills of planning, organizing, goal-setting, problem-solving, decision-making, sharing their knowledge, being a team member, being responsible, learning from others, nurturing relationships, resolving conflict, and more.  Their profiles tell the story of the impact 4-H has had on their young lives, as one member shares, “I first joined…as a timid, self-conscious little girl, little did I know the impact 4-H would have…helping me become a leader I did not know I was capable of being.  Because of 4-H, I am better.  I am confident.  I am out-going.  I am a leader and a team player.  I will carry the skills I’ve gained… for the rest of my life.”  Her goals was accomplished and recognized through 4-H.