The real face of hunger

The real face of hunger

4-H Hunger Ambassadors find innovative ways to ease burdens.

From community gardens to mobile food markets, Illinois 4-H members are finding issues for youth in their communities. They have found a new partner equally committed to achieving that goal. Olympian has joined 4-H on its quest to improve for families.

“The work I do in the community will be the I’m able to leave,” Jackie says of her work at her East St. Louis community center. She hopes the youth see that giving back doesn’t have to be about money. “When someone gives their time, that’s giving back. I hope they learn that.”

Jackie’s Winning in Life youth development curriculum, based on her autobiography, teaches youth center participants 14 principles, including hard work, commitment, time management self respect, and grit.

“My hope is they’ll to handle whatever happens in their lives,” Jackie says. “We want society to dig deep, and our lessons align with what 4-H teaches.”

St. Clair County 4-H member spent the day with Jackie. Caleb’s story is as exceptional as the renowned athlete. Born in China, Caleb spent two years in an orphanage and seven years in foster care before being adopted by Russell and Angie Kinzinger seven years ago. despite multiple surgeries related to spina bifida.

“4-H has taught me that even though I am disabled, I can still do things other people can do,” Caleb says, including show pigs at the fair. “My parents help me find ways to reach in the show ring and life.”

4-H youth create food secure communities by finding innovative ways to solve local hunter issues.

by Judy Mae Bingman

Caleb Kinzinger (center) with Garden Manager Mark (left) and Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee