Iowa Ag Connection - Iowa 4-H Council Embarks on Statewide Donation Effort

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Iowa 4-H Council Embarks on Statewide Donation Effort
Iowa Ag Connection - 10/30/2020

Iowans are invited to join the State 4-H Council in a community effort to donate nonperishable food items throughout the month of November. Food items will then be donated to local food pantries, churches, etc., in their respective counties following the end of the month.

State 4-H Council members discuss service efforts.Members of the service and outreach committee within the State 4-H Council gathered during their fall retreat to discuss service efforts needed across Iowa. According to Feeding America, one in seven children in Iowa struggles with hunger.

"We wanted to give back not only to the state of Iowa but to individual communities, especially with the uncertainty of this year. We want to make sure that everyone has enough food for the holidays," said Holly Schmitt, state council member from Winneshiek County.

Those wishing to donate to the cause may drop off their nonperishable food items at their Iowa State University Extension and Outreach county office. Donations will be accepted from Nov. 2 until Dec. 1.

The committee has a goal of reaching 10,000 donated food items through the end of the drive. This goal can be easily reached if each of the 100 county extension offices donates 100 food items.

The State 4-H Council is a group of 40 energetic and positive high school 4-H students who serve as ambassadors for the Iowa 4-H program. Council members also plan the annual Iowa 4-H Youth Conference and 4-H'ers for 4-H campaign, participate in professional development opportunities, and gain valuable leadership and communication skills through quarterly retreats.

The service and outreach committee is one of three council committees that members can serve on. This committee works to brainstorm ideas to get 4-H'ers and others around the state excited about service learning that helps meet the needs of the state.

"One of the things we focus on in 4-H is pledging our hands to larger service and this food drive is such a simple but effective way to give back to our communities. Food is a necessity that many of us take for granted every day," explained Ashley Yedlik, state council member from Johnson County.

To learn more about the State 4-H Council or the Iowa 4-H program, visit www.extension.iastate.edu/4h/.

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