New structure, long-term funding refreshes and renews 4-H in Alberta
Passion for Alberta’s premier youth organization has fueled the creation of a bold new blueprint for the future of the 4-H movement in the province.
After extensive consultations throughout Alberta, the three partners responsible for 4-H (the 4-H Council, 4-H Foundation and Agriculture and Forestry) have announced a realigned organizational structure to be known as 4-H Alberta.
Over 400 people connected with
4-H – volunteer leaders, members, alumni and community members, south to north - took part in a thorough engagement process to share their views on how to make 4-H more efficient and even more relevant for today’s youth and the hundreds of volunteers involved in this highly respected leadership program.
After reviewing the recommendations,
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Devin Dreeshen affirmed the government’s commitment to 4-H with a pledge of a ten-year funding and inkind support promise, shared during a member’s event in Ponoka Feb. 22.
“This unprecedented kind of longterm assurance will enable 4-H to equip volunteer leaders and members with innovative program planning,” stated Lanny Anderson, who chairs the 4-H Council. “We heard loud and clear from the 4-H family that a more coordinated structure was required to help grow and expand 4-H to a broader audience by bringing all parties together under one unified group. And having the on-going support of both the elected officials and Ministry of Agriculture & Forestry reflects the confidence this government has in the value of 4-H.”
The revitalized operating model will have a common CEO responsible for the operating organization 4-H Alberta and the Alberta 4-H Foundation, providing administration and operational services for both entities.
“It was important that we modernize, but also provide ways for 4-H supporters to sustain the program into the future and provide for our facilities at the 4-H Centre,” said Glenn Logan, chair of the 4-H Foundation. “This commitment from Agriculture and Forestry, combined with the on-going support of sponsors and volunteers, will provide the stability 4-H needs to grow and thrive.”
4-H has been impacting young people for more than 100 years in Alberta, equipping them with skills like completing projects, raising livestock, conducting meetings and public speaking.
While the variety of 4-H projects is truly diverse, members are also known for championing the role and importance of agriculture and what it does for our dinner tables, our communities and our world.
“There’s never been a greater disconnect between the general population and agriculture. Historically, 4-H has played a critical role in developing leaders and bridging the rural/urban divide. The Alberta government values the importance of 4-H and understands its willingness to evolve to better deliver on its mandate. I’m proud of its legacy and the unlimited potential of Alberta 4-H kids in the future.”
Further details on the streamlined, member-focused organizational structure will be rolled out in a series of announcements to the 4-H community. More information will be posted to the website 4h.ab.ca as it becomes available.