Youth Win $2,500 for Community Improvement in Plymouth County

By Andi Anderson

Middle school students from Akron-Westfield Community School District in Plymouth County demonstrated leadership and creativity by participating in the “My Hometown is Cool!” contest this December.

The contest, part of a national pilot program, aimed to inspire youth to contribute to their community’s development.

Twenty students engaged in lessons on civic engagement, entrepreneurial thinking, and community development to prepare for the pitch competition. They presented innovative ideas to enhance Akron's community pride, competing for a $2,500 award.

The proposals included building welcome signs at highway entrances, adding trash cans in the local prairie preserve, and creating a more prominent visitor welcome sign.

Judges evaluated the pitches based on feasibility, funding use, and community impact. The winning idea, presented by a team of students, proposed installing four "Welcome to Akron" signs at key entrances to the town. These signs will also showcase local businesses and attractions, aiming to boost community pride and tourism.

Beth Bunkers, a 4-H youth program specialist, praised the students’ efforts, saying, “It was wonderful to see the youth of Akron stepping up and taking leadership roles in community projects. Their collaboration with community partners brought valuable insights and support to their proposals.”

The winning team will collaborate with local businesses, community leaders, and extension professionals this spring to implement their project. The initiative reflects the youth’s dedication to improving their hometown while learning practical skills in leadership and teamwork.

The project, funded by the Extension Foundation, is part of a broader collaboration with ISU Extension and Outreach 4-H Youth Development and the Akron-Westfield School District. It highlights how youth engagement can drive meaningful community change.

This initiative demonstrates the power of youth in shaping their communities and serves as a model for fostering civic pride and innovation.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike