4-H programs could not thrive or exist at large quantities without the leadership of community members serving as volunteers. Individuals who are willing to donate time to educate youth in a variety of settings, either through projects, school enrichment, leader led clubs, etc. become the volunteers that help make 4-H a great organization in being able to offer youth multiple activities and opportunities in a multitude of interests and topics. A simple thank you can go a long way in showing these amazing individuals who volunteer how much their efforts mean to youth programming and positive youth development.

Pendleton County, Kentucky 4-H volunteers receive annual Christmas and birthday cards as a reminder of 4-H’s appreciation of them. This year, volunteers received an additional thank you with delivery of 4-H Camp Valentine cookies.  4-H had purchased 28 dozen cookies from the North Central 4-H Campgrounds to deliver to volunteers, 4-H Council members, and club leaders in Pendleton County, Kentucky. These cookies along with a hand-written appreciation card were transported to each of the volunteers’ homes as a small way to say thank you. This small gesture of appreciation made its way full circle by the unintended gratitude received in return through social media. Many volunteers made Facebook posts on how much a hand delivered thank you gift was appreciated. This public declaration of thanks shared the excitement that 4-H magic brings for those involved to other outside viewers of those social media post. The combined posts generated 175 likes and 16 comments. This appreciation gift offered a reminder to volunteers that their efforts within 4-H programming really does make a difference in their community.