Where do I begin? Over 15 years ago I started out as a young Cloverbud wanting to learn about everything: bugs, animals, sewing etc. I was just so interested in learning new things. I did not realize how much 4-H would affect me in the years to come. 4-H has not only given me knowledge about animals but I have also learned countless life skills I never knew I would gain. I have done projects from sewing to photography, and rabbits to lambs.

Without 4-H I do not know where I would be today. I have had some of the best moments of my life in 4-H. I still remember competing in my first speaking contest. I said the pledge and won first prize, but now I know that “Head, Heart, Hands and Health” means more than I could have ever imagined. I learned how to be a leader and to work in difficult situations. I started out as a young timid girl who did not know much. In my last year, I was a confident women who could be approached in any situation. 4-H is a program that teaches children life skills and positively affects youth development.

I have something else that I gained from 4-H that people usually don’t get. I met the love of my life when I was only 13 years old. We became great friends and after being friends for a few years we started dating. Now, together over 5 years and engaged, we could not be happier that 4-H brought us together. 4-H has also helped me prepare for my career in nursing. Interacting with people at the fair has allowed me to become more comfortable in my own skin and confident in the decisions I make.

4-H has taught me how to plan and work as a team. I cannot think of a moment when 4-H has not taught me something. My last year in 4-H I was crowned the 2015 Ashtabula County Junior Fair Queen. This was an honor and something I looked forward to from the time I was a young child. This was my chance to thank 4-H in a way and give back to the program. I spread awareness of 4-H throughout the state of Ohio. If you are a parent reading this, please enroll your child in 4-H, I promise you won’t regret it.

I would like to thank 4-H for shaping me into the women I am today. I could not be happier for who I am becoming and how I have changed from being in 4-H. I believe that 4-H is something that every child should be a part of. Now, age 20, I am starting a new leaf in 4-H. I have become a 4-H volunteer and I hope to make a difference in children’s lives like those around me did my past 15 years in 4-H. Thank you 4-H, for everything you have done and everything you continue to do.

I am proud to be Kortney Squibbs, a 4-H alumni