COLUMBIA, Mo. – Missouri 4-H recognizes the dedication of more than 5,700 volunteers who invest their time and energy to mentor and guide young people.

“Missouri 4-H volunteers are the heart of our program, shaping young leaders who are ‘Beyond Ready’ for the future,” said Lupita Fabregas, senior program director for University of Missouri Extension 4-H Youth Development. “Their dedication ensures that youth gain the skills, confidence and resilience needed to succeed in leadership, careers and life.”

National Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 20-26, is the perfect time to celebrate the incredible contributions of 4-H volunteers, Fabregas said.

From leading clubs and teaching hands-on skills to supporting county fairs, judging contests and mentoring young people, 4-H volunteers play an invaluable role in youth development, she said. Every hour a volunteer gives directly contributes to equipping young people with lifelong skills that prepare them for success.

In the past year alone, Missouri 4-H volunteers donated more than 630,600 hours of service, a contribution to Missouri communities valued at $21.1 million. Their dedication ensures that young people across the state have access to opportunities that shape their futures, Fabregas said.

To honor the exceptional service of 4-H volunteers, the Missouri 4-H Foundation presents the Frank Graham Volunteer Leadership Award and the Naomi Crouch 4-H Volunteer Leadership Award.

The Naomi Crouch 4-H Volunteer Leadership Award recognizes outstanding volunteers and organizations for notable contributions to 4-H youths. Named for Naomi Mohler Crouch, a dedicated advocate for Missouri 4-H, this award celebrates those who continue her legacy of service. This year’s recipients:

• Crystal Burch, Vernon County, Individual.
• Michelle Taylor, Henry County, Individual.
• The Closet in Edina, Knox County, Organization.

The Frank Graham 4-H Volunteer Leadership Award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to Missouri 4-H. This award recognizes volunteers, educators and supporters whose leadership and dedication have had a lasting impact on 4-H youth development. This year’s honorees:

• Wendy Guss, Warren County, East Central Region.
• Amy Rothemeyer, Gasconade County, East Central Region.
• Jaime Aslin, Pike County, Northeast Region.
• Kelly Jo Valentine, Putnam County, Northeast Region.
• Willie Bagley, Livingston County, Northwest Region.
• Rhonda Luther, Ray County, Northwest Region.
• Sam Huenefeldt, Cape Girardeau County, Southeast Region.
• Christy Cole, Newton County, Southwest Region.
• Vicky Taylor, Dade County, Southwest Region.
• Melissa Love, St. Charles County, Urban East Region.
• Cassidae Pfeiffer, St. Louis County, Urban East Region.
• Peggy Ann Eichen, Cooper County, West Central Region.
• Cherly Mohr, Bates County, West Central Region.

Missouri 4-H encourages more adults to step up and support 4-H, helping ensure that youths across the state continue to benefit from transformative experiences. Learn more about becoming a 4-H volunteer at 4h.missouri.edu.

About Missouri 4-H

Missouri 4-H grows today’s youth and prepares tomorrow’s leaders. With a blend of time-tested traditions and innovative hands-on learning, Missouri youth explore and find their spark in programs ranging from agriculture and conservation to aerospace and career development. Through clubs, programs, camps, in-school and after-school experiences, University of Missouri Extension faculty, staff and thousands of volunteers guide youth in developing essential skills, building confidence and fostering connections. Together, they inspire young people to make a real difference in their communities, their country and the world. To learn more about Missouri 4-H, visit 4h.missouri.edu.

Photos

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/20250423-4hv-1.jpg
It takes many volunteers to lend a helping hand to 4-H Clover Kids at a “regional energizer” event.

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/20250423-4hv-2.jpg
A 4-H volunteer helps a youth fill out her project record form. Photo by Bella Baker.

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/20250423-4hv-3.jpg
It takes many volunteers to help with On My Own, a financial literacy simulation for 4-H’ers.

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/20250423-4hv-4.jpg
It takes many volunteers to help with On My Own, a financial literacy simulation for 4-H’ers.