2 minute read
Romano
Continued from Page 47 engagement, health and science. Youth gather in different topic-specific clubs like STEM and robotics, textiles and cooking, veterinary and livestock science to name just a few. “We have 25 clubs across the county that meet in different places and times. There is something for everyone’s interests.” The Chesco Outdoor club navigates exploration, fishing and camping while the To Love a Canine Club teaches kids the world of rescue dogs along with handson care and training. Lew adds, “you don’t have to be a farmer’s kid to be a part of 4-H, there are so many different topics to try.”
What Lew is referencing, is 4-H’s long ties to the AG community. 4-H programs and farming have historically grown hand and hand. Today, Chester County 4-H continues to be the place for rising youth that engage in livestock programs involving beef, sheep, swine, goat and equine clubs. The Romano 4-H Center serves as the grand stand for the kids to show their livestock at the annual 4-H fair in August where they display the culmination of their passion and hard work. The Center provides a platform for the next generation of AG professionals and the Penn State Extension provides the tools. Together, both organizations create an environment of continuation for youth that have interest in the county’s largest industry, agriculture. Within the livestock and many other topic clubs, 4-H
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requires the kids to pick one project to focus on throughout the year. As the youth focus on the physical aspect of that project, they also pick up quite a few life lessons along the way like the four values of 4-H: head, heart, hands and health. The content of the programs mentor young people to become capable and compassionate adults. These clubs are formed in our communities, led by volunteers and build confidence and leadership through togetherness. Audrey, being a former 4-H’er herself, explains, “4-H alumni are heavily involved in running programs today which makes it possible.” Lew and Audrey laugh and say, “we bleed green.” The dedicated volunteers are a testament to the lifelong effect the club has on youth.
In addition to 4-H, the Romano 4-H Center also brings many outside community organizations through its doors. Lew explains, “we host everything from horse shows, dog agility trials, a Native American culture day, benefit sales and mud sales.” They welcome recurring meetings like the West Chester Grower’s meeting and agriculture workshops.
“The facility has the outfit to accommodate private groups that may not otherwise have that type of space available to
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