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4‑H educator outlines volunteer contributions, state fair results and new programming
Summary
University of Wyoming Extension 4‑H educator Natasha Holtmeier reported on volunteer time investments, youth achievements at county and state fairs, and plans to relaunch junior leaders and add workshops and volunteer training to expand youth opportunities in Sweetwater County.
Natasha Holtmeier, youth development educator with the University of Wyoming Extension, briefed the commissioners on the county’s 4‑H program at the Sept. 16 meeting, highlighting volunteer contributions and youth successes at fairs.
Holtmeier said a volunteer survey (14 respondents) showed volunteers averaged 37 hours during fair week and invested another ~147 hours in planning and setup; one volunteer reported giving more than 500 hours. Families also made out‑of‑pocket contributions, often between $100 and $500 per family for fair costs. "Without volunteers, 4‑H simply could not exist," Holtmeier told the board.
She described program achievements: the county sent about 120 static exhibits and 18 youth to the state fair; every youth who attended champion‑of‑champions events placed in the top 10, and one member won overall steer champion. The presentation also noted awards in fashion and fabric and other project areas; one youth received a $500 scholarship to attend a national 4‑H event.
Looking ahead, Holtmeier said the county will relaunch a junior leaders program, expand hands‑on workshops in livestock, STEM, creative arts and life skills, and provide volunteer training to reduce barriers to participation. She thanked commissioners for county support and emphasized that volunteer training and resources are necessary to sustain program growth.
