The 4-H Fair

I love the 4-H fair. I was a member for 10 years. I learned how to cook and sew by doing many projects. The 4-H fair in my county was quite competitive. The judges were tough and applied Purdue University rigor to child created projects. I struggled along for five years only receiving red and (and worse yet!) white ribbons. I decided I would give 4-H one more year and if I didn't receive a blue (1st place) ribbon I would just quit! Well, wouldn't you know it... my sixth year in 4-H I won my first blue ribbon. I stayed in 4-H and went on to win many more blue ribbons and even one reserve champion. I was really glad that I was persistent and continued to strive for the ribbon I wanted.

Amber Rehberg, Youth Extension Agent of Sheboygan County, Wisconsin says this so well in her monthly "Letter to 4-H Families":

The Fair is a special celebration of accomplishments but the real purpose of 4-H is about developing Blue Ribbon Kids. We have had a long history of youth and adults striving to make their best better, not only for themselves but for others. Whether the project involves a camera, a cow or a cookie, the ultimate goal is to help young people become the best they can be by gaining valuable life skills through experiential learning.

4-H is for the kids! If their photo or calf or cookies wins first place, that's great. If it doesn't, that may be even better. With the help and encouragement of parents, leaders and others, youngsters with the red or white ribbons have opportunities to grow and learn. For some the blue ribbon says, I know all I need to know; there is no reason to strive to do better; a blue ribbon should mean, I accomplished my goals for this year, it's time to raise the bar!

Fairs, shows and contests give everyone the opportunity to strive to do their best, to learn to cooperate as well as compete, to express their views and concerns and get along with others in the process. We all like to be considered the winner, but winning comes in different forms for each of us. As adults we need to do our part to help kids develop a winning attitude and sense of accomplishment, no matter what color the ribbon might be.

Keep working for your goal!