The funding will help the organization further the reach of 4-H clubs across rural communities
By Diego Flammini
Staff Writer
Farms.com
The Canadian government is helping ensure a staple organization in rural communities can continue to deliver important programs to its members.
Yesterday, Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau announced an investment of up to $3 million for 4-H Canada. The funding will come from the AgriCompetitiveness program under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
More than 250,000 members and 7,000 volunteers belong to 4-H clubs across the country.
Investing in 4-H Canada encourages young farmers and rural citizens to become active members of their communities.
“Young farmers across Canada must have a public voice and play an active role in shaping the future of our agriculture industry to ensure our rural communities continue to thrive and that all Canadians have access to healthy food,” Minister Bibeau said in a statement.
The organization appreciates the government support.
The investment will allow 4-H Canada to continue expand its program offerings and engage with youth in a relatable manner.
“There are more areas of focus (in 4-H) now than there have ever been,” David Hovell, chair of the 4-H Canada Council, told Farms.com. “Not only is it just primary agriculture, it’s science and technology, food security and environmental sustainability.
“Gone are the days when I was a 4-Her and you waited each month for a newsletter. We try to have as many touchpoints as we can, and that includes an online presence of social media like Facebook and Instagram because everything is so immediate.”
Several 4-H programs, like the Steeped in Soil and Canada Science Fair Program, already feature an online component, Hovell said.
Despite the changes in how and where Canadian youth interact, the result of time spend in 4-H doesn’t change, he added.
“The ultimate (outcome) is a quality individual who is a respectful and engaged citizen who understands the value of community and contributing to the community.”