Quebec 4-H
Annual Report
2014 Learn to do by Doing
TABLE OF CONTENTS Directors, Staff, Presidents and Past-Presidents…...3 Quebec 4-H Mission and Statistics…….……….…..4
4-H PLEDGE
Statistics ………….………………………………….5 President’s Report…………..………………...……..6
I Pledge: My HEAD to clearer thinking My HEART to greater loyalty My HANDS to larger service My HEALTH to better living For my club, my community, and my country.
Executive Director’s Report…………………………7 Agricultural Liaison’s Report ……………...………..8 Communications Report…………………………….9 Our Structure………………………………………. 10 Club Reports………………………………..…….....12 Quebec 4-H Provincial Activities …………...….....24 Canadian 4-H Council Programs…………………...25
Je Promets d’employer Ma Tête pour des idées hardies, Mon Cœur pour être plus humain, Mes Mains pour être plus habile, Ma Santé pour vivre en harmonie, Pour mon cercle, ma communauté et mon pays.
Other Activities and Programs …….……….………28 Audited Financial Statements……………………….29 2014 Provincial Partners and Sponsors ……...….…..31
This Annual Report of the Quebec 4-H Association is presented to the 2013-2014 Quebec 4-H assembly of members at the Annual General Meeting held in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, November 22, 2014
4-H GRACE We thank thee lord for blessings great, On this our own fair land, Teach us to serve thee joyfully, With Head, Heart, Health and Hands
Je vous remercie mon Dieu pour ce repas Que nous allons prendre Et procurez du pain A ceux qui n’en ont pas
Quebec 4-H
Macdonald Campus, Harrison House 3-04, 21,111 Lakeshore Road, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3V9 Tel: 514-398-8738 Fax: 514-398-8652 office@quebec4-h.com www.quebec4-h.com 2
2013-2014 QUEBEC 4-H BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2014 QUEBEC 4-H STAFF Executive Director Agricultural Liaison
Lorelei Muller Chelsea Daniel
President
Sarah Enright
Vice-President
Andrea Soesbergen
Office and Communications Assistant
Norma Tolhurst
Past-President
Mathieu Rouleau
Public Relations Assistant
Jessica Goodsell
Chair of Programs and Regulations
Julie Neal
Program Assistant
Bailey Kay
Chair of Financial Committee
Andrew Hickey
Youth Advisory Committee Member
Alexandra Tucker
Directors
Annie Grubb
2014 CLUB PRESIDENTS
Shelby Drew
Brome
Annie Grubb
Hatley
Brittany Taillon
Howick
Julie MacFarlane
Huntingdon
Rebeca Gabriel Chris Nieuwenhof
Samual Rouleau Jesse Bradley
Lachute
Bobbi Heatlie
MAC/JAC
Sarah Enright
Kira Nelson
Ormstown
Veronique Brisson
Carrie Simpson
Richmond
Emily Enright
Matthew Morin
Sawyerville
Krista Whalen
Matthew Burns
Shawville
Lindsay Howard
Lindsay Howard
PROVINCIAL ASSOCIATION PAST PRESIDENTS 1969 1969-70 1970-71 1971-72 1972-73 1973-74 1974-75 1975-76 1976-77 1977-78 1978-79 1979-80 1980-81 1981-82 1982-83 1983-84 1984-85 1985-86 1986-87 1987-88 1988-89 1989-90 1990-91
Colleen Coates-Younie (Lennoxville) Clayton Murphy (Huntingdon) Winnie Tibbits-Murphy (Brome) Joan Lang-Russenstom (Shawville) Alvin Barrington (Howick) Nancy Hardacker-Corscadden (Brome) Andy Tolhurst (Howick) Mary Brus (Hatley) Larry Ness (Howick) Charles Fowler (Richmond) Ken Tolhurst (Howick) Peter Griffith (Richmond) Rick Younge (Shawville) Neil Burns (Sawyerville) Angus MacKinnon (Hatley) Suzan Smith-MacDonald (Lachute) Tim Beland (Waterloo) Mark MacVicar (Lachute) Kathy Beerwort-McKinven (Brome) Kathy MacKinnon (Hatley) Al Beland (Waterloo) John Beerwort Jr. (Brome) Steven A. Latulipe (Huntingdon)
1991-92 1992-93 1993-94 1994-95 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14
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Paul Mastine (Richmond) Cheryl Stanley (Shawville) Lynn McOuat (Lachute) Amber Heatlie (Lachute) Kathy Howard (Shawville) Mavis Judd (Shawville) Mavis Judd (Shawville) Trudy Beaton (Sawyerville) Katie Coates (Haut St. Francois) Katie Coates (Haut St. Francois) Melissa Nyveld (Shawville) Daniel Mastine (Richmond) Jessica Cox (Hatley) Jessica Cox (Hatley) Tyler McCann (Shawville) Tyler McCann (Shawville) Jenna Soesbergen (Huntingdon) Jocelyn Closs (Shawville) Christine Tolhurst (Howick) Angela Neal (Ormstown) Mathieu Rouleau (Howick & MAC JAC) Mathieu Rouleau (Howick & MAC JAC) Sarah Enright (Richmond, MAC JAC)
2014 Annual Report
QUEBEC 4-H MOTTO Leadership tomorrow through learning today
QUEBEC 4-H MISSION Quebec 4-H is a community based organization, which is dedicated to developing life skills such as leadership, cooperation, responsibility and independence for the English-speaking rural youth of Quebec through achievement and skill development.
QUEBEC 4-H STRATEGIC PLAN Objectives
The Quebec 4-H community (members and adult volunteers) benefits from a strong and growing provincial network. Each 4-H club is well positioned to engage the youth in their local community. Quebec 4-H is increasingly visible throughout the entire province as a youth organization with a leadership development mandate. Quebec 4-H operates under strong and effective governance. The long-term sustainability of Quebec 4-H is ensured.
STATISTICS 2014 441 Members
40 Leaders
15 Clubs
3 Provincial Staff
16 Projects
MOST POPULAR PROJECTS
Peewee members ages 8 and under:135
Dance
133
Poultry
29
Junior members ages 9 – 12 years: 157
Dairy
132
Crafts
27
Intermediates ages 13 – 15 years: 56
Outdoor Living
101
Sheep
17
Beef
67
Rabbit
15
Garden
52
Equine
14
Quebec 4-H
Senior members ages 16 – 21: 79 Proven members ages 22 – 25: 14 4
COMMUNICATIONS STATISTICS
The News Spreader
Website
Social Media
521 Likes
2,247 regular issues printed 2,252 Rally editions printed 648 online views
5,588 Sessions 3,242 Users 1,391 New users
MEMBERS
178 Followers
2138 photos
1,014 referrals to the website through Social Media
BY REGION
Lower North Shore 98 Members Western Quebec 82 Members
Eastern Townships 159 Members
Chateauguay Valley 92 Members 5
2014 Annual Report
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
W
elcome to Quebec 4-H’s Annual General Meeting! Recently, I was asked: “What is 4-H?” I sat there thinking over how I would be able to tell this person about all of the great things that 4-H is, and realised that it is not something that can so easily be explained. To be part of 4-H is to be part of a community of dedicated and driven youth who all have valuable opinions and optimistic perspectives on life and agriculture. It is much more than a few words on paper, detailing the organisation’s goals and achievements; it is a spirit and a pride which is carried by members everywhere they go. Once again this year, staff, leaders, volunteers, and committee and board members have been hard at work. Although 4-H is run by youth for youth, it is important to acknowledge the contribution of leaders as mentors and volunteers. Without them the organisation would not be as successful as it. Thank you! It is a hard task to keep the momentum of the organisation going after such a special year as the 100th anniversary of 4-H in Canada. However, we have made wonderful progress. With the addition of a third full time staff member, Norma Tolhurst, the expansion of our provincial office, and the acquisition of new and exciting sponsors, Quebec 4-H has really grown during the past year. The success of activities such as Provincial Rally, Innovative Ag Tour, and Junior Camps – to name a fewcharacterises the increased growth of our organisation. From the addition of a third full time staff person to the annual online auction, our organisation is constantly finding ways to offer new opportunities for youth, to create greater visibility in our communities, and to discover fun and exciting ideas to help Quebec 4-H improve. I am very honoured to have served as your president this year, and to have been given the opportunity to act as a role model and leader. I have come to realise that being a leader is much more of a learning experience than I thought it would be. I have worked hard to ensure 4-H’s increased visibility, encouraging new memberships, working to further the provincial office’s transparency with clubs, promoting our pop-tab collection for the Ronald McDonald House fund, and of course falling more passionately in love with all of the great things that 4-H is. Here’s to the next year of amazing youth doing amazing things and keeping the 4-H tradition alive!
Sarah Enright, 2013-14 Quebec 4-H President Quebec 4-H
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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
4
-H in Canada is 101 years old. Though the centennial parties are behind us, we continue to have much to celebrate. Striving to improve our risk management practices, we are glad to say that 35 of our 40 volunteer leaders in 2014 have crossed all of the t’s and dotted all of the i’s of our screening process. Not only does this help us to meet the standards expected of a reputable youth organization, this progress also helps us to quantify just how long our volunteers have been donating their time to assist their local clubs so we can celebrate their commitments. 2014 marks 10th anniversaries for five of our volunteers. At their local club, they may be known as directors or parent reps but no matter what they’re called, we’re delighted to honour the dedication of these leaders to the youth in their communities. A few of our leaders have also been giving their time for years numbering in the high teens; we look forward to celebrating their 20th anniversaries in the near future. We are also thrilled to have welcomed 4 new leaders in 2014; we hope to someday be celebrating their special anniversaries as well. New leaders and long-time leaders alike, those commitments to providing fun, learning experiences are valued greatly by club members as well as by the provincial association. For a second year, we were pleased to recognize those contributions during National Volunteer Appreciation Week and look forward to continuing this new tradition in the future. So, we encourage leaders to watch their mailboxes for a token of our appreciation in April 2015. To help support volunteers in their roles, in 2014 we introduced the Leaders’ Link. We received positive feedback following the first issues distributed in May and September. Plans are to circulate this email bulletin three times annually with the next edition scheduled for January to start off the new year. That’s not the only progress we’re pleased about in communications this year. With our facebook page Likes crossing the 500 mark and increased visits to our website, we are glad to be spreading the word of 4-H to the public while also keeping members and leaders informed. The Junior Junction feature on our website and in the News Spreader has been welcomed by our members aged 9 to 12. We’re always happy to receive photos, artwork, and news in response to the activities we’ve provided. We look forward to more great things in the coming years. With the launch of a new 4-H Canada logo in 2015, we hope to add new items to our 4-H Market and to help clubs with orders of new clothing items. Soon after, we’ll begin planning for our turn to host the 4-H Canada Annual General Meeting coming to Quebec in 2017. From there, we’ll turn our thoughts to 2019 and the 50th anniversary of the Quebec Young Farmers, the precursor of the Quebec 4-H we know today, coming together as a provincial association. 100 years behind us, ready for the next 100, and glad to be working with such a dedicated group of members and leaders who have helped to make 4-H what it is today.
Lorelei Muller, Executive Director 7
2014 Annual Report
AGRICULTURAL LIAISON’S REPORT
A
s I am nearing my second anniversary as Agricultural Liaison I am able reflect on how proud I am to be part of the 4-H association; as we strive to help build strong leaders in our communities and industries. Among our provincial goals, we are continually committed to encouraging the personal and professional growth of our members through project based learning and by providing youth development programming and opportunities. One of my efforts has been to provide meaningful programming for busy senior members; to that end, Discovery Days programming was a focus. Though registration numbers were a struggle, feedback from senior member is that this type of program is very much desired. Future plans are to modify the program to better accommodate work and school schedules; potentially through weekday evening events or by looking into online webinar options. Two post-Rally surveys were also created to help staff identify where programme and administrative improvements could be made; one survey went to Rally chaperones and the other survey went to host club main contacts. The results and feedback found in these two surveys will help the Quebec 4-H team improve the processes and planning strategies for 2015. These surveys were so beneficial that they will permanently become part of post-Rally wrap up procedures, allowing staff to continue to improve the program annually. For Rally 2015 Quebec 4-H is very seriously looking into subscribing to Assist Expo, a software program designed to help in the management of agricultural shows. This program has already been adopted by many of our stakeholders’ local fairs, as well as larger national competitions. This tool will simplify and improve the Rally registration process, namely, by reducing the amount of forms being mailed to clubs. This will avoid flooding members with too much information and papers, which have been an issue in the past; as it stands the bulky Rally packages are both confusing and intimidating to members/families new to Provincial Rally. We are confident that a move to online registrations will enhance the programme, furthermore we are optimistic that less intimidating registration process will also encourage a larger participation. As Ag Liaison it is part of my mandate to continue to provide clubs with useful project resources and opportunities to expand their knowledge base. In that regard some successes have been seen this year; namely with the distribution of 24 Judging project manuals to 7 clubs across the province! Clubs who are interested in receiving new project resources are encouraged to reach out and explore new possibilities; there has never been a wider selection of projects available in all the history of 4-H, what better time than now to expand your horizons! Here’s to new adventures in 2015!
Chelsea Daniel, Agricultural Liaison Quebec 4-H
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COMMUNICATIONS REPORT
K
eeping members across the province informed of the countless opportunities available to them at the provincial and national levels, is by no means an easy task, but in 2014 I believe we have made significant progress in effectively conveying this information. As our main source of communication, the News Spreader has seen some significant changes in the past year, which has included some layout changes to provide an easier flow-through as well as the additions of new sections and features to compliment local club news and 4-H opportunities. In an effort to strengthen the relationship and communications with the other members of the Table de Concentration, the News Spreader now features a “Jeunesse Rurale du Quebec” section which keeps our members in the loop with the happenings of our francophone counterparts. The “Featured Member” section has allowed us to showcase the amazing work of some of the Quebec 4-H members to readers across the province and 4-H associations across the country, and finally, the Junior Junction section in conjunction with its web page has allowed us to provide our largest demographic of members with additional resources, activities, and contests. The News Spreader is now also available digitally, through our website resources, if you prefer to view it through your browser at any time. Along with our print communications, vast improvements in our digital world were also of focus in 2014. While our website saw a huge makeover in 2012, this past year we have been able to keep it maintained and as up to date as possible, including updates to the French pages, to provide the most accurate information to our members, stakeholders, and as well for individuals or groups who are interested in learning more. An online photo database using Flickr has also helped to easily manage and share our photos. With social media being the communication tool of choice these days, we have made sure not to neglect our online followers. Our Facebook page has seen a huge growth in followers, meaning greater exposure to our association, and simply said another tool for making sure our members receive the information they need to know. While our twitter account has not seen as much activity, we are hoping in the new year to begin to use this tool to its full advantage. Finally, an Instagram account was also created, especially to share event photos in real time. If you don’t already, please follow or “like” us on any or all of these popular sites and we will be sure to keep you up to date with everything going on! See page 5 of this report for more statistics about our communications!
Norma Tolhurst, Office and Communications Assistant 9
2014 Annual Report
Our Structure Local 4-H Clubs 4-H Clubs made up of members and volunteer leaders are responsible for conducting meetings as well as organizing and carrying out local activities including social, fundraising, and community events. Clubs, their members, and leaders, form the Quebec 4-H Association. Members and leaders have the opportunity to participate in local, provincial, national, and international 4-H programs.
Quebec 4-H Association
The Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN) is a not-for-profit organization linking 41 Englishlanguage community organizations across Quebec and advocating for the official language minority in the province.
Q uebec 4-H, along with the Association des jeunes ruraux de Quebec (AJRQ), and La Federation de la Rélève Agricole (FRAQ) came together in 1995 to form La Table de concertation de la jeunesse rurale du Québec. Over the years, the Table de concertation has held several conferences to bring together members of the three organizations for networking and professional development. In 2013, the Table celebrated the 100th anniversary of rural youth movements in Quebec.
Quebec 4-H
The provincial organization keeps track of membership and club registrations while administering all provincial 4-H programs and opportunities. Members are aged 6 to 25 years old. Quebec 4-H also works collaboratively with other provincial 4H agencies to provide resources and opportunities to members along with the Canadian 4-H Council and its committees. Quebec 4-H is run by a Board of Directors made up of member representatives, and four standing committees: Advisory, Executive, Financial, and Programs and Regulations. Individuals are nominated to the committees at the Annual General Meeting.
Canadian 4-H Council The objective of the Canadian 4-H Council is to provide relevant programs and services which are consistent with the 4-H philosophy and serve to enhance provincial 4-H programs. The Council organizes and coordinates national and international conferences, exchanges, and scholarships that focus on citizenship, leadership development, career choices, technology transfer, and other pressing issues being faced by today’s rural communities. The Council is a not-forprofit, non-governmental agency governed by a group of member representatives. With the assistance of the Canadian 4-H Foundation, the Council provides funding assistance to the provincial associations. The mission of the Canadian 4-H Council is “Providing strong national leadership to ensure a quality 4-H program across Canada.” The vision is “We will be recognized by our customers as the leader of 4-H in Canada, ensuring a strong national brand, innovative programming, and sustainable funding.”
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Board of Directors Board members are elected for one-year terms. There is presently no limit on the number of years a board member may serve though the position of President is a maximum two year term. The Board is made up of 4-H members, youth from various clubs contributing their time for the benefit of the 4-H program and its members. In addition to attending the Annual General Meeting, board members meet three or more times a year in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue or via conference call.
Executive Committee The Executive Committee is made up of the President, Vice -President, Past-President, Chair of Programs and Regulations, Chair of Financial Committee and Executive Director. It reports to the Board of Directors.
Executive Director Is responsible for financial and risk management including budgets, grant applications, and screening processes, as well as managing human resources and overseeing coordination of provincial activities. This position sits on the 4-H Canada Provincial Supervisory Committee, and Fund Development Network in addition to the QCGN Executive Directors’ Network.
Financial Committee The Financial Committee is made up of a minimum of 3 and maximum of 10 people in addition to the President and Vice-President. The role of the committee is to oversee the administration of the organization’s finances. This includes but is not limited to employee salaries, expense account claims and budgets. All recommendations from the financial committee must be submitted to the board for approval. Programs and Regulations Committee The Programs and Regulations Committee is responsible for all Provincial regulations, including: Constitution review, Policies and Procedures, Rally Rules, Activity rules and guidelines. It is also responsible for producing the criteria for different selection processes within the organization and selecting delegates for national programs. The committee is responsible for preparing proposals for changes to existing or new programs. Decisions of the committee shall be reported to the board and require ratification. The Programs and Regulations Committee shall be comprised of 5 - 15 members, 2 of which must be Provincial Directors.
Agricultural Liaison Is responsible for provision of resources to clubs, tracking and promotion of opportunities of interest to members and leaders, and coordination of agriculturally focused activities. This position sits on the National Resource Network and Table de concertation de la jeunesse rurale du Quebec.
Advisory Committee The Advisory Committee is made up of at least 5 people, of whom 2 must be executive committee members. The remainder are adult advisors and partner representatives. The role of the Advisory Committee shall be to offer advice to the provincial board on matters of debate. Any questions concerning the policies and by laws of the organization are reviewed by the committee and their response gets submitted to the board.
Office and Communications Assistant Is responsible for all membership and event registrations, publications such as the News Spreader, social media management, and other marketing initiatives. This position also sits on the National Marketing and Communications Network.
YAC Delegate The Youth Advisory Committee is the national youth voice for 4-H Canada, providing leadership opportunities for outstanding young people from across the country who have been part of 4-H and want to continue to play a role and contribute. YAC is made up of 12 provincial members who meet as a committee on a regular basis, play a large ambassador role within their provinces, make recommendations to 4-H Canada regarding programming, policy development, marketing and communications. The Quebec 4-H YAC member also sits on the Board of Directors. 11
2014 Annual Report
BROME Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer Reporter
Annie Grubb Sam Dempsey Annarose Beaudoin Glover Phil Beaudoin-Glover Phil Beaudoin-Glover
Despite having a small club, the Brome 4-H’ers had a pretty eventful year. From winter fun to fitting sheep, they truly exemplified the motto of “Learn to do by doing”! Members got together for some winter fun at the West Brome skating rink on March 1. Activities included skating, sliding and a bonfire.
They kicked off the year with a Macmillan’s fundraiser, selling all kinds of goodies to help support their 4-H projects for the coming year. Members participated in livestock projects which included Dairy, Beef and Sheep. They participated at locals fairs, competing against other 4-H’ers.
During the Brome Fair, members also pulled together to give back to their community and the environment by helping to sort the recycling throughout the weekend. Two of the older members also had the opportunity to participate in Innovative Ag Tour, held in Hatley this year.
FUTURE PLANS FOR THE CLUB Increase membership. Improve support and clinics offered on current projects and offer some new projects to members, such as archery and fishing.
A sheep fitting demonstration and clinic was given to members in August by Senior Hatley 4-H’er, Shelby Drew.
2014 STATISTICS 15 Members
Quebec 4-H
3 Leaders
12
3 Projects
HATLEY Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer
Brittany Taillon Monica Parnell Kolbie Sutherland Morgan Passmore
Participating in a variety of livestock projects including Beef, Dairy, Rabbit, Goat, Horse, Chicken and Sheep, the Hatley 4-H club had a busy year attending a number of shows and fairs in the Eastern Townships as well as Provincial Rally, the AJRQ Classique, and finally the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Their biggest feat this year however, was to host Innovative Ag Tour, where members across the province had the opportunity to visit farms and agribusinesses in the area. Stops of interest included the Dairy and Swine Research Members participate in a variety of projects and Development Centre in Sherbrooke, Fou Du Berger (a milking sheep farm), including poultry. Ferme Butler (a robotic dairy farm), and much more! For the 3rd year, as a community service project, members raised turkeys which were auctioned off at the Ayer’s Cliff Fair to raise money for a local charity. The Ayer’s Cliff Fair is an especially busy time for these members. A pig scramble was organized by the club once again and they also tended to an ice cream booth throughout the weekend. Senior member Shelby Drew also participated in the Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture competition in Toronto, giving a heartfelt speech about why she wants to pursue a career in agriculture. She earned her way to the finals.
FUTURE PLANS FOR THE CLUB The club will hold its banquet at the end of November and is planning an evening of carolling and a wagon ride for the holiday season. Hatley participants at Provincial Rally entertained the audience this summer with their very creative interpretation of “Country Fairs”.
2014 STATISTICS 38 Members
2 Leaders
13
7 Projects
2014 Annual Report
HOWICK Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer Reporter
Julie MacFarlane Zoe Lalonde Emily McKay Jessica Rouleau Kevin Macfarlane/ Rosa Zahner
Member of the Howick 4-H Club had a very busy year, especially as one of the host clubs for Provincial Rally. Despite that however, they managed to participate in a number of meetings in Square Dancing, Dairy, Garden and Craft projects. Each group, or the general club, met about once or twice a month to work on their projects, As a community service project, members participated once again with the preparation of the local community Christmas baskets for families in need. Members all dressed up for the Provincial A team was sent to the Macdonald Judging competition, where Square Dance competition. Howick finished first in the 4-H division. Thanks to RBC, during the winter, the club had the opportunity to host an Open house/Fun day at Ferme Rouleau. Organized in an “Amazing Race” style, participants were divided into teams and had to complete tasks around the farm related to the different projects that you can do in the club. The day was a huge success with nearly 70 people in attendance and the recruitment of many new members. The Square Dancers were very busy, sending 2 teams to the provincial competition, the Ormstown competition, and a team with Ormstown members to the Vankleek Hill competition. Many members also participated in Provincial Rally, making a definite impression with their very creative entry for the costume class which had each member dress up as a giant ribbon from a country fair. Everyone’s projects were displayed and judged at the Achievement Day held at Terrace Bank Farm at the end of the summer. Although it was a rainy day, everyone had a great time. In November, Jessica Rouleau also had the opportunity to participate in the National Members Forum in Toronto. Many of the younger members also participated in Winter and Summer Junior Camps. The year was wrapped up with a banquet held at the town hall. Club presidents gave reports about the years activities and members were presented with trophies and awards based on how they did at Achievement Day. 6 Junior members also gave a presentation about their experience at Junior Camp. The evening finThe group shot at Achievement Day: before the rain! ished off with some dancing. Everyone had a great time.
2014 STATISTICS 33 Members
Quebec 4-H
5 Leaders
14
4 Projects
HUNTINGDON Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer Reporter
Rebeca Gabriel/ Chris Nieuwenhof Julie Gabriel Julia Nieuwenhof Rebeca Gabriel Kristin Sutton
The Huntingdon 4-H’ers kicked off the year with their annual skating day held at the local arena. With a new garden leader, and many new younger members with a focus in gardening, they took on a very special activity this year called the Tomatospere Project which tests seeds which have been to space versus regular ones. Each member planted 5 of each type and brought their greenhouse home. At home, they observed which seeds sprouted first and if they noticed The Huntingdon fitting team at the Provincial any differences in the growing patterns of the plants. Rally were reserve champions As one of the host clubs for Provincial Rally, they were also very busy throughout the year fundraising and planning activities for the event. The members had fun tie-dying t-shirts to sell as one of their fundraisers. Having Provincial Rally in the Valley was a great opportunity for all the new members to participate and get a real idea and feel of what 4-H really is. Everyone enjoyed the experience. Members participating in the Dairy project also had a busy year, participating in a number of local fairs and Provincial Rally. The Huntingdon Achievement Day was in August to present their accomplishments and hard work during their year. In the morning the Garden Project was extremely well represented by many dedicated young members. Projects from floral arrangements, to scrumptious bread animals, to carrots, onions, and even alien tomato posters were on display. After a break for lunch, the dairy show included Peewee showing and a friendly municipality competition. The Achievement Day was capped off with the decorating of a Huntingdon 4-H parade float to be displayed in the parade during Huntingdon Fair that same weekend. The “Tomatosphere Project” had members plant seeds that had been to space and regular seeds to see which would grow better.
2014 STATISTICS 25 Members
2 Leaders
15
2 Projects
2014 Annual Report
LACHUTE Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer
Bobbi Heatlie Jenna Hammond/ Matthew McOuat Brianna Elliott Stacey Godin
Many of the Lachute members showed livestock, including dairy calves, horses, goats, poultry and rabbits. Once again this year, the club also had 3 square dancing teams. Some members also participated in public speaking and life skills at Provincial Rally during the summer. This year, the Square dancers participated in 3 different competitions. The provincial competition and Ormstown , bringing 3 teams to each. Also, in May, they competed at Vankleek Hill where they brought 4 teams. Members were also very busy participating in fairs and shows throughout the summer months. Some members also attended Provincial Rally in July, Summer and Winter Junior Camps, and 2 members went to the Royal with The garden project, with special attention to their dairy calves. growing pumpkins, has remained a popular project over the years. In the spring, the club had its largest fundraiser: a square dance . Members performed to open the evening followed by great music and dancing for all. At the Lachute Fair, members tended to an ice cream booth to raise money for the club. At the end of the year, a turkey raffle fundraiser was also held where members raffled off the turkeys that they cared for and raised throughout the year. A special event that the club participated in this year was the “Lachute as We Remember� event, which was a reunion for all past and present citizens/families living in the Lachute area. The Lachute Fair and Club Achievement Day provided members the opportunity to showcase their projects to the community and compete in a little friendly competition. The club will finish off the year by visiting the local senior residences to entertain the seniors by singing Christmas carols, reading poems, and telling festive jokes. Members will also bring home baked goodies to share with the seniors.
FUTURE PLANS FOR THE CLUB The club hopes to host fun days for its members. Ideas include waterslides, tubing, LaRonde, Saunders Farm, sleigh rides, and taffy parties! Lachute will also host the province for Innovative The Lachute 4-H club sent 3 teams to the Provincial Square Dance Competition in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevure where they Ag Tour this spring. had a VERY successful afternoon.
2014 STATISTICS 36 Members
Quebec 4-H
5 Leaders
16
8 Projects
LENNOXVILLE
This year, Quebec 4-H welcomed the rebirth of the Lennoxville 4-H club. The 4-H club was originally created in 1931 and was called the Lennoxville Calf Club. Although the club will keep much of the same spirit and determination of the originally small Lennoxville Calf club, a few exciting changes are being made. The club, centered on Champlain College and Bishop’s University campus, caters to senior members. The club plans on learning line dancing, volunteering in the community, and hopefully working up to having a square dancing team. The club held its first meeting on November 3rd. Potential projects were discussed, plans were made, and members celebrated National Show Your 4-H Colours Day by showing off their green. Although only 3 members were in attendance, interest has been voiced by several other students on campus. The club hopes to start meeting regularly in the New Year. As one former Lennoxville Calf Club member wrote: “As present members, we hope in twenty years, there will still be an active Lennoxville 4-H Club and that they have the opportunity to enjoy themselves as much as we have”. Although we are a small club, we hope to embody this person’s sentiment and to do justice to the once diverse and dedicated Lennoxville 4-H.
FUTURE PLANS FOR THE CLUB Similar to the MAC JAC 4-H Club, Lennoxville 4-H’ers will meet on campus for a weekly meeting which will involve some kind of line dance activity and socializing with members attending school at Bishop’s or Champlain College. Members will also have the opportunity to participate in provincial and national activities.
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2014 Annual Report
LOWER NORTH SHORE
Each summer since the K.I.D.S Summer Camp’s inception in 2006, the Coasters Association has coordinated the program to enable youth in rural and isolated communities to come together with friends for fun, outdoor adventure, and learning. The mission of KIDS Summer Camp is to nurture and develop a safe and healthy environment in which youth can improve their health and obtain skills that will assist them in their future lives, through physical activities, mental development, artistic growth, environment awareness, and community/family participation. The theme for the 2014 camp season was “Around the World in 40 Days” with weekly activities focusing on a different country and including a variety of crafts, games, and learning. Members proudly displayed their creations at the end of the season. In total, 98 4-H members participated at four locations: Blanc Sablon (42 campers), St. Paul's River (26 campers), St. Augustine (20 campers) and La Tabatiere (10 campers).
2014 STATISTICS 4 Clubs
Quebec 4-H
98 Members
18
1 Project
MAC JAC Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer
Sarah Enright Kira Nelson Ariane France Ariane France
Throughout the year MAC/JAC 4-H held line dance meetings on average once a week with breaks given during busy exam periods. During these meetings members would learn new line dances from our club Leader and from other members alike. These meetings also included unstructured socializing time to unwind from a day of schooling. Members participated in a number of activities throughout the year. 3 members attended the Discovery Day visit to Valacta and Darkzone laser tag. Multiple members also competed on various teams at the Macdonald Judging Competition. Notable placings were Ariane France 11th overall The MAC JAC 4-H Club hosted the Provincial individual, Chelsea Daniel 5th overall individual, and Stephanie B-Naud Square Dance competition at Macdonald Camtaking Champion Overall individual! pus and participated with a full team. rd This year, MAC/JAC hosted the 3 annual Provincial Square Dance competition in the Centennial ballroom. Over 80 spectators were in attendance and 10 teams participated (which was double the previous year’s numbers). MAC/JAC team took Champion senior team. The club was also chosen as the provincial winners in the 2nd Shout-Out for Ag video contest for two separate videos: “Why we chose to pursue a career in Agriculture” and “Why we joined 4-H”. In the spring, a MAC/JAC team participated in Ormstown 4-H’s Square Dance Competition and placed 3rd in the senior division. 4 participants represented the club at the Provincial Rally, participating in Goat and Dairy projects. In August, members Andrew Hickey, Ariane France and Kira Nelson set up a table at the Mac BBQ to help promote the club to other students. This fall, the club held a pizza party followed by an evening of Lazer tag at DarkZone Laval. Shinae Hartley also represented the club at the RAWF’s Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture competition! This was the first time that any MAC/JAC member has participated in the competition.
FUTURE PLANS FOR THE CLUB 4 members represented the club at the Provincial Rally. Members are seen here in the costume class.
In 2015, MAC JAC will once again host the Provincial Square Dance Competition in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. Plans are also underway for another activity night.
2014 STATISTICS 12 Members
1 Leader
19
4 Projects
2014 Annual Report
ORMSTOWN Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer Reporter
Veronique Brisson Laura Bryson Adele Bryson Carrie Simpson Ella Bryson
With many members participating in a variety of projects and lots of activities throughout the year, it was an action packed year to say the least. The Square Dancers participated in a number of competitions and events including: the Provincial Square Dance Competition, the Ormstown competition (for which they were also the hosts), Vankleek Hill competition, as well as demonstrations at the Huntingdon Hospital, Havelock Fair, and Blair Orchards. Members participating in the Dairy project had the opportunity to attend numerous meetings and clinics, including a clipping and calf prep day in April with the local Coop and a showmanship clinic in May followed by a judging clinic in July. They participated in a number of fairs and shows throughout the season including Ormstown, Ormstown members gave back to their Huntingdon and Havelock. A Junior Team also had the opportunity to participate in community by collecting canned goods for a the Macdonald Judging competition. local food bank. The biggest event of the year, was co-hosting the Provincial Rally at the Ormstown Fairgrounds, where members from across the province competed in a number of projects. 14 members from the club participated. A number of community service projects were also completed this year: Money and canned food donations were raised at the annual banquet and pancake supper to donate to “La Bouffe Additionel”. Also, a half and half fundraiser during the Ormstown Square dance competition raised funds to donate to the MS Society of Canada. The Achievement Day was held in August, a tractor rodeo in September, and our annual AGM in October. In November, five members attended the TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic and, a first this year, a junior member competed in the Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture public speaking competition held at the Royal Winter Fair. A Craft Day was held in November and the Banquet will be held in December. Senior Member, Emmanuel Brisson represented Canada, along with five other Canadians, at the European Young Breeders School in Battice, Belgium. Emmanuel won the Grand Champion Showmanship class and was crowned overall winner of the competition.
FUTURE PLANS FOR THE CLUB The club would like to continue their efforts in community involvement and organise some fun outings for the members. One of these will be to go to the Base de Pleine Air Les Cèdres. A group is also hoping to participate on a summer exchange with 4- Some members participated in a garden project. Their work was judged at Provincial Rally and their local Achievement H Canada Youth Exchanges. Day.
2014 STATISTICS 33 Members
Quebec 4-H
4 Leaders
20
5 Projects
RICHMOND Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer Reporter
Emily Enright Chelsea Morin/ Steven Morin Alyssia Weare Carolyn Coddington Devin Keenan
Richmond kicked off the year with their Annual General Meeting where the new executive was elected and members got to enjoy a fun night of bowling. In November, the club participated in the Remembrance Day parade. This has become an annual tradition for the club. Later that month, the club also hosted a presentation by Jean Beliveau-Nelson at the Richmond Regional High School. Both the club and the community were invited to listen to the endeavors Jean faced on his walk around the earth for peace and for the children of the world. Senior square dancers at the Ormstown compeThe Square Dancing project has the largest number of participants compared to tition. Square dancing is the most popular proall the other projects available through the club. This year, Leader Erin Scoble was ject for the Richmond 4-H club. able to coach 3 sets of dancers which put on a demonstration at a local retirement home. Everyone enjoyed their night the club left with requests for them to return the following year. The Square Dancers also participated at the Provincial Competition and the Ormstown Square Dance Competition. 2014 showed new opportunities for the club. Carrie Nixon, a 4-H mom and new leader, started up a scrapbooking club available to all members. This project took off right away and is enjoyed by members of every age. Next another 4-H mom, Tracy Vidal gave a photography course to members as well. A visit to Macdonald College was one of the highlights of the winter. Members got a tour of both the schools and the barns. Paul Meldrum was a great hit with the kids, teaching them about farming and different operations a research barn has to do. After the tour, members went to Isaute, which is a trampoline park. The annual Richmond 4-H fundraiser dance was held at the community center in Richmond. This was a great success, with the whole community coming out to enjoy a night of fun and dancing with music by Slightly Haggard. Throughout the year, monthly meetings featured a variety of focuses and clinics including horse, alpaca, rabbit, chicken, dairy, beef, and much more! In June, the Achievement Day was held at the Richmond fair grounds. This year the club had a record number of participants showing horses. A successful day by all was capped off with the much-awaited interbreed showmanship competition won by Tiffany Nelson. Again this year, the annual ice cream social was held on July 1st. Many people came to celebrate Canada Day with a nice bowl of ice cream and strawberries prepared by the club. This year, the club had 15 members who attended Provincial Rally; many also participated in Winter and Summer Junior Camp. The Richmond 4-H Club hosted its annual Inter-Club Competition at Richmond Fair in September. We had over 80 members showing from six different 4-H and AJRQ clubs. The club also participated in a fundraiser in which tickets were sold to go see a concert Brett Kissel at the Piggery. The concert was a great success; the members and community both got to meet and take In 2015, Richmond will be the host for Provincial Rally, with the pictures with the singer. theme “Tractors”. Many members are also hoping to During October, the club held its annual apple pie fundraiser, participated on a national exchange with another club in this year making 793 pies within 2 ½ days. It was a huge success and Canada. a lot of fun for the members.
FUTURE PLANS FOR THE CLUB
2014 STATISTICS 73 Members
6 Leaders
21
10 Projects
2014 Annual Report
SAWYERVILLE Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer Reporter
Krista Whalen Matthew Burns Jessica Everett Cameron Burns Lisa Nichols
After a big year with Provincial Rally in 2013, the Sawyerville 4-H had a relatively quiet year, but nonetheless eventful. In January a fun day was held at Mont Hatley where members went tubing. This month also included the annual banquet for 2013 ,where the club presented a variety of awards for every member who participated in the club. During the year, regular meetings were held for the various projects. In May, a fundraising dance was held and resulted in an excellent turnout, and a Club President Krista Whalen, had a very great night by all. successful show season, participating in The following weekend the club held a prep day for the members in Provincial Rally, the Quebec Junior Beef Show, and the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair to name order to prepare them for the show season. Different stations were set up to a few. teach the members how to properly show the animal. The activity also included workshops on animal fitting as well. Many members participated and enjoyed the day. In June, the annual Achievement Day was held. Grand Champion Senior Showman for the day was Matthew Burns, Reserve was Cameron Burns, and there was a tie for Honourable Mention between Krista Whalen and Meaghan Rivett. The lunch was generously provided by the Bulwer QFA. July was the Provincial Rally hosted by the Valley clubs. Sawyerville had 11 members attend and it was a successful weekend for the members of the club. The rest of the summer, many members participated in a number of fairs with their animals. Cookshire, Ayers Cliff, Brome, and Richmond Fairs were well attended by the club. With the fair season now over, the club has since had meetings to judge garden produce and elect a new executive.
The Sawyerville 4-H club had many of their members participate in Provincial Rally this year in a number of different projects.
2014 STATISTICS 33 Members
Quebec 4-H
3 Leaders
22
4 Projects
SHAWVILLE Executive: President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer Reporter
Lindsay Howard John Dagg Rebeca Nugent Kathleen Hickey April Judd
Members of the Shawville club participated in a variety of projects this year at the club, provincial, and even national levels. Members participated in 6 animal projects as well as square dancing. Throughout the year, many meetings were held at local dairy and beef farms. Special visits were also organized to Horticulture Latremouille, Saunders Farm, to a steer meeting at Oattes Feedlot in Cobden, Ontario, and Kelly’s Greenhouse. A sheep showmanship clinic was also given with Kyla Ness. Tyler Tubman was crowned Grand Champion Many community service projects were also achieved throughout the year, the most notable being the Annual Pancake Breakfast which raised funds Showperson at the Regional 4-H show held for 2 local individuals in need. The square dancers were also very busy, doing during Shawville Fair. demonstrations at many local events including Oktoberfest, the Canada Day parade, and the Christmas parade. A cow patty bingo was also organized to raise funds for the McDowell Elementary School French Emersion Program . Many Junior members of the club participated in both Winter and Summer Junior Camps; 5 members attended Provincial Rally. In April, Senior member Laura Stephens-Dagg also had the amazing opportunity to participate in the US National 4-H Conference in Washington. Shawville Fair weekend was without a doubt the busiest time for the members. The Friday of the fair, members participated in the annual Achievement Day with their animal projects in dairy, beef, rabbit, chicken and sheep. The steers were also judged in the morning, and then in the evening were auctioned off to a packed crowd. The next day the 4-H Regional Show was held, opening up the competition to other members from the surrounding areas including Ontario and the AJRQ Clubs. Similar to Rally, a supreme showmanship class was held where members must demonstrated their knowledge of showing a wide variety of animals. Throughout the fair, the club also manages a very popular food booth which serves as a fundraiser for the coming year’s activities. The 4-H steer auction at the Shawville Fair is a longstanding tradition for these 4-H’ers.
2014 STATISTICS 45 Members
6 Leaders
23
7 Projects
2014 Annual Report
QUEBEC 4-H PROVINCIAL ACTIVITIES 2014 Provincial Square Dance Competition Over 80 participants from 5 different clubs participated in this 3rd edition of the event. The competition was once again hosted by the MAC JAC 4-H Club on Macdonald Campus. With attendance nearly doubling from the previous year, the competition was stiff. In the end, the Lachute 4-H Club finished first in the Junior division and MAC JAC was the winner for the seniors.
Winter Junior Camp This fun-filled weekend for members aged 9 – 12 was held from February 14-16. Large snowfalls and blustery winds were not enough to get in the way of 26 Junior Campers. Held at Base de Plein Air in Les Cèdres, 6 different clubs from across the province were represented at this year’s event which was themed “For the Birds”. Friday evening activities included the much anticipated live birds of prey presentation by staff of the Ecomuseum. Saturday activities included snowshoeing, games, and other round robin activities. Sledding and skating were enjoyed by all as well. Throughout the weekend, members also had the opportunity to learn more about birds and make bird feeders to take home with them.
Discovery Day – Labs and Laser Tag 9 4-H’ers and friends toured the Valacta facility in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. The facility tests milk samples sent to them by producers from across Quebec. Valacta is able to give producers results on fat and protein content for each of their cows. Participants were very fortunate to be allowed on to the floor where they were able to see first-hand how they test and analyse milk samples. After the tour, participants headed to Darkzone laser tag in Laval. Thanks to a little skill and team work they won all three games.
Innovative Ag Tour This year’s Innovative Ag Tour, brought 44 participants from 4 different clubs to Hatley, Quebec from March 7-9 to visit the farms and agri-businesses in the surrounding area. Stops included the Dairy and Swine Research and Development Centre, two Holstein farms including one using Lely automation, a milking sheep farm, beef producer, horse trainer, and greenhouse. At a banquet on Saturday night held at Érablière Ferme Magolait participants also had the opportunity to enjoy taffy on snow, go sliding, and kick up their heels in a little square dancing.
Provincial Rally The 39th annual Provincial Rally was hosted by the Valley 4-H Clubs from July 17th– 21st. 98 members participated with 132 projects. Countless other members, parents, volunteers, and spectators also attended the event. The theme of “Country Fairs” was evident in the costume class, Farmers’ Olympics, barn displays, life skills classes and some of the public speaking topics. Show Day included rabbits, poultry, goats, sheep, horses, dairy, and beef classes. Judging and fitting competitions rounded out the weekend.
Summer Junior Camp 26 members from 7 clubs participated in a weekend of “Out of this World!” themed activities at Voyageur Provincial Park from August 1013. Members arrived Sunday afternoon and set up their campsite, grouped into their teams, and played some outdoor games before it got dark. Throughout the weekend, participants had the opportunity to launch bottle rockets, make tie-dye t-shirts, learn about the constellations, go to the beach, participate in a presentation on invasive species, crafts, campfires, and much more! While the last day of camp was a bit wet, that didn’t damped the spirit of these energetic members. During a game on the last afternoon the very lucky kids landed on a patch of 4 leaf clovers on our campsite, it was a moment meant to be for the 4-H’ers!
Back to School Pizza Party On Wednesday, September 3rd, more than 30 members from 4-H and AJRQ clubs gathered at Harrison House, home of the provincial office on Macdonald Campus. Members introduced themselves to the group, and discussed some upcoming provincial activities for the year. The pizza party provides an opportunity for members now attending school at John Abbott and Macdonald Colleges to get to know one another. Supper was followed by a meeting of the Quebec 4-H Board of Directors.
Provincial Fundraiser: Online Auction For a second consecutive year, the Online Auction was held to benefit the provincial association as well as the local clubs. Over 50 items were donated by sponsors and clubs, resulting in a profit of $1426. Proceeds will assist with improvements in programming for 4-H members and leaders
Quebec 4-H
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CANADIAN 4-H COUNCIL NATIONAL PROGRAMS NATIONAL CONFERENCES U.S. National 4-H Conference Each year a handful of Canadian 4-H’ers join approximately 300 American delegates in Washington, D.C. for the conference. Through workshops, social events, and group activities, participants gain a better understanding of 4-H and enhance their leadership skills. They also tour Washington and visit sites such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Peace Tower, and Capitol Hill. Laura Stephens-Dagg from the Shawville 4-H Club was fortunate to attend the event this year with the other Canadian delegates. National 4-H Citizenship Seminar Held for the first time outside of Ottawa, Citizenship Seminar unfolded this year in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island from April 11-17, in honour of the 150th Anniversary of the Charlottetown Conference. Andrew Boersen (Richmond 4-H), Laura Bryson (Ormstown 4-H), and Rebeca Gabriel (Huntingdon 4-H) represented Quebec along with former YAC member Charles Gascon as their chaperone. This conference gives insight into the country’s political processes as well as the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens. National 4-H Members’ Forum (Previously National Conference) Once again in Toronto this year, this event was held November 5-9. This year’s theme, “Green Lives, Positive Minds”, gave to members the opportunity to really explore aspects of Heads, Heart, Hands, and Health through a number of activities, workshops, tours, and guest speakers. Jessica Rouleau (Howick 4-H) was the only Quebec 4-H delegate for 2014.
National 4-H Leadership Conference From February 20-23, Quebec 4-H staff, Lorelei Muller, Chelsea Daniel, and Norma Tolhurst, along with Youth Advisory Committee delegate Lexie Tucker, participated in the National Leaders Conference hosted by the Canadian 4-H Council in Ottawa. Over 80 volunteer leaders, staff, and youth representatives from across the country attended the event. An opportunity for best practices to be shared and new ideas for the future to be discussed, the participants left the weekend with new knowledge for the improvement of our organization as well as motivation to begin the next century of 4-H.
Quebec 4-H is eligible to send between 1 - 4 delegates to national programs and may sometimes send additional delegates if other provinces have not filled their quota. National conferences for members are open to 4-H’ers ages 16 to 21. Quotas for international programs change on a yearly basis. Quebec 4-H covers 1/3 of the delegate registration fees of $250 for C4-HC national programs and $350 for international programs for each Quebec 4-H member. Amounts listed are 2014 fees for the programs. Chaperones are required for national events. Fees are covered by Quebec 4-H. Quebec 4-H subsidizes the entire registration fee for volunteers attending the National Leadership Conference.
EXCHANGES 4-H Youth Exchanges Canada This program, open to delegates ages 12 to 17, offers an opportunity to see more of Canada while gaining lasting friendships and memorable experiences. In summer 2014 the exchanges were postponed while the program was being reviewed. W. Garfield Weston Foundation 4-H International Exchange This program offers members ages 18 and older an opportunity to learn about another country’s agriculture and resources, gain a broader world outlook, and forge new friendships while representing 4-H in Canada. Participants stay with host families while spending approximately five weeks in each other’s countries.
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2014 Annual Report
CANADIAN 4-H COUNCIL NATIONAL PROGRAMS SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS Chrysler Foundation Scholarship In recognition of 4-H Canada’s 100th anniversary in 2013, the Chrysler Foundation offered 100 scholarships, valued at $1000 each, to 4-H members from across Canada attending a Canadian college or university in September 2014. An active member for the past four years, and 2014 Richmond 4-H president, Emily Enright was chosen as the only Quebec recipient for this prestigious award. John Deere Canada 4-H Scholarship Through the generosity of John Deere Canada, 15 - $1,000 scholarships were available across Canada to 4-H members in good standing with plans to pursue a post-secondary education at a Canadian college or university in the field of engineering, agricultural/mechanical trades, science, business or health in the fall of 2014. CIBC 4-H Post-Secondary Education Scholarship Through the generosity of CIBC, 8 - $1,000 scholarships were available across Canada to 4-H members in good standing with plans to pursue a post-secondary education in the field of engineering, arts, science, business, or health in the fall of 2014. 4-H AgriVenture Scholarship Sponsored by AgriVenture Global and the International Agricultural Exchange Association, a $3,000 scholarship will be awarded to one student nationally to be used toward an AgriVenture travel and work program. Larry Milton Campbell Scholarship Created in honour of the late Larry Campbell, who retired after 38 years of service with the Canadian Meat Council, two $2,500 scholarships will be awarded annually to current 4-H members planning to attend a Canadian University in a Food Science, Meat Science, or Animal Science discipline. CIBC National Volunteer Leader of the Year Award Members are encouraged to give their leaders the recognition they deserve by nominating them for this award which has a winner at the provincial and national levels. Provincial winners are recognized with a $100 prize and are eligible for a $1,000 prize and trip to the National Leadership Conference. No Quebec 4-H Leaders were nominated at the end of 2013. The deadline for nominations for this coming year’s award, sponsored by the Cooperators, is November 21st. CONTESTS FCC Shout out for AG Back for a second year, members across the province were invited to submit videos in 5 different categories. Winners were determined in each category at the provincial and national level. A total of 39 videos were submitted from across the country, including 4 from Quebec. Selfies with Sears In honour of Show Your 4-H Colours day, together with Sears, 4-H Canada invited members from across the country to visit their local Sears counters in their green to take a photo with one of the employees. $200 Sears gift cards will be awarded to the first 15 clubs to submit their photos. Build a winning future contest: Results Revealed Launched in 2013, the Canadian 4-H Council and Enbridge held the contest in celebration of the 4-H Centennial. Each club received enough decks of cards for all their members. The goal of the contest was to use the brightly coloured cards, decorated with 4-H memories, statistics, and trivia from across the country, to build or create a “structure’ representing the club’s vision for the next century of 4-H. Prizes were awarded in the new year. The Cercles des Jeunes Ruraux de Compton-Waterville took second place. Science Contest Launched in October of 2014, 4-H Canada is encouraging members to think outside the box and create an invention that could change the world of Agriculture. Contest is open until January 16, 2015.
For more information about these and other Canadian 4-H conferences, exchanges, awards, scholarships, and grants visit www.4-h-canada.ca .
Quebec 4-H
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4-H CANADA GRANTS Farm Credit Canada Through its Club Support Grant, FCC contributed up to $500 to 4-H clubs to help them cover operational costs. In February 2014, the Ormstown 4-H Club was a recipient. The FCC 4-H Club Fund launched on Sept. 29, 2014 to provide grants of up to $500 towards club activities taking place prior to June 30, 2015. Clubs have begun receiving notifications. Sears in your Community 4-H Club Grants Program Open to applications from clubs and provincial associations, funds received by Quebec 4-H help support the Junior Camp theme projects. RBC Rural-Urban Youth Outreach Program In 2013 – 2014, Quebec 4-H received a grant through this program and directed funds to help with 2 club outreach activities. One was an Open House held by the Richmond 4-H Club to show the community about the clubs activities. The second was the Howick 4-H Club Fun Day, where grade 4-6 students were invited to the farm of a 4-H family to participate in an Amazing Race style activity day designed to teach the kids about the different projects available within the club.
OTHER 4-H PROGRAMS Canadian 4-H Council Youth Advisory Committee With representatives from each provincial organization, YAC allows a youth voice in program development and decision making at the national level. Lexie Tucker is finishing her term this year. Huntingdon 4-H member, Andrea Soesbergen has been selected as the YAC delegate for 2015-2017.
Show Your 4-H Colours Day On Wednesday, November 5th, members from across the province and the country proudly wore green in honour of Show your 4-H Colours Day. Huntingdon MNA, Stephane Billette, showed his support to 4-H’ers by making a declaration at the National Assembly. Proud to BEE a 4-H’er Through this national campaign in association with Syngenta, each 4-H member across the country received 2 packets of wildflower seeds (one for the member, and one to give to a friend) which included varieties that promote bee pollination. The program also provided the opportunity for the local clubs to order and sell seed packets as a fundraiser. Investing in Me: Career Exploration A new initiative for 2014, members from across the province had the opportunity to apply to work in 2 different agricultural related positions, HELP (Health, Education & Livelihood Project) International’s farm-based Centre for Ecology Research and Training in Weyburn, SK, or FoodShare in Toronto.
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2014 Annual Report
OTHER ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS Throughout 2014 Quebec 4-H members participated in a number of other activities open to 4-H members at the regional, provincial, and national levels.
Judging Competitions 31 Quebec 4-H’ers participated in the Macdonald College Intercollegiate Judging Competition held in February, judging in the 4-H and intercollegiate categories. Points from Mac Judging and Quebec 4-H Provincial Rally are combined to decide the top 4-H judges of the year as announced at Annual General Meeting.
Square Dancing Events In addition to the Quebec 4-H competition, many square dance events are held throughout the year. Teams from across the province joined together in Ormstown 4-H Club’s annual competition. Teams from Ormstown, Howick, Shawville, and Lachute attended the Vankleek Hill Fiddle and Dance Association Square Dance Competition. 4-H’ers across the province also danced at various venues throughout the year, providing entertainment at community events and service through performances at seniors’ residences.
Classique des Jeunes Ruraux Québécois Members from Hatley and Richmond 4-H clubs attended this show at Montmagny from August 15-17, competing in dairy showmanship and conformation. In total, 188 participants were registered for this event.
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair 24 Quebec 4-H’ers from 3 regions attended the RAWF held in Toronto. At the TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic, teams included South-West Quebec, made up of 5 Ormstown, 2 Huntingdon members, and 1 AJRQ; South-East which included 1 Hatley, 6 Richmond members, and 1 AJRQ; and North-West, which included 1 Shawville, 2 Lachute members, and 2 AJRQ. 2 members from Shawville 4-H and 1 from Brome participated at the National Junior Beef Heifer Show. 4 members from the Huntingdon, Hatley, MAC JAC, and Ormstown 4-H clubs presented speeches at Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture. Notable results from the various events included Alana Mckinven of Ormstown placing 1st in intermediate showmanship and honorable mention overall dairy showman, Jack Oattes of Brome receiving grand champion beef showman and reserve champion Simmental heifer, and Andrea Soesbergen of Huntingdon placing 3rd overall in the public speaking competition. Quebec Junior Beef Show Many Quebec 4-H Members participated in this weekend event which encompasses many aspects of the beef industry. Participants had the opportunity to show their animals, participate in photography and graphic design competitions as well as a cook off. École de Préparation Hosted annually by Holstein Quebec, this weekend event gives participants a hands on opportunity to practice dairy fitting and animal preparation skills. This year, Steven Morin of the Richmond as well as many AJRQ members participated in this event. Pop tab collection As a spin-off from the 100 Acts of Kindness initiative held during 4-H’s centennial year, Quebec 4-H has continued with encouraging its members to collect soft drink tabs to benefit the Ronald McDonald House. Many members from across the province have contributed to this effort. Katie Grandsire-Mastine of the Richmond 4-H alone, brought in over 18 pounds to the provincial office on 2 different occasions throughout the year. After a final collection at the 2014 Annual General Meeting, a few members and staff will deliver the tabs to the Ronald McDonald House in early December.
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INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
To the Members of ASSOCIATION 4-H DU QUÉBEC / QUEBEC 4-H ASSOCIATION We have audited the accompanying financial statements of ASSOCIATION 4-H DU QUÉBEC / QUEBEC 4-H ASSOCIATION Association, which comprise the balance sheet as at March 31, 2014, and the statements of income, changes in net assets and cash flow for the year then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information. Management's Responsibility for the Financial Statements Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. Auditor's Responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity's preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity's internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our qualified audit opinion. Basis for Qualified Opinion In common with many charitable organizations, the Association derives revenue from donations the completeness of which is not susceptible of satisfactory audit verification. Accordingly, verification of these revenues was limited to the amounts recorded in the records of the Association and were not able to determine whether any adjustments might be necessary to recorded contributions, the excess of revenues over expenses, and cash flows from operations for the year ended March 31, 2014, current assets and net assets as at March 31, 2014.
Qualified Opinion In our opinion, except for the effects of the matter described in the Basis for Qualified Opinion paragraph, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of ASSOCIATION 4-H DU QUÉBEC / QUEBEC 4-H ASSOCIATION Association as at March 31, 2014, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-forprofit organizations. Gilles Massie, CPA auditor, CA Brossard June 16, 2014
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2014 Annual Report
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
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A complete version of the Financial Statements and accompanying notes are available upon request.
All Statements represent figures for the Fiscal year end on March 31st, 2014.
BALANCE SHEET
STATEMENT OF INCOME
Quebec 4-H Wall of Partners 2014 Quebec 4-H recognizes the tremendous impact funding partners have on 4-H’s ability to deliver a quality product. Sponsorship plays an integral role in the operation of the Quebec 4-H program helping our association to meet the needs of its members and adult volunteer leaders. Contributions, whether cash or in kind are greatly appreciated. Quebec 4-H would like to recognize the efforts of the Canadian 4-H Foundation in securing funding from some of the organizations listed below on our behalf.
Patron $25,000 + Department of Canadian Heritage Benefactor $10,000-$24,000 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Builder $5,500 - $9,999 Farm Credit Canada Kverneland Group Monsanto Service Canada Enhancer $3,500 - $5,499 Farm Management & Technology Program - Macdonald College Champion $2,000 - $3,499 CIAQ - Centre d'insémination artificielle du Québec CQRL - Conseil Québécois des Races Laitières La Coop fédérée
Advocate $1,000-$1,999 Merial Canada Sears Canada Supporter $500 - $999 Agribrands Purina Canada Inc. Holstein Quebec Les Équipements Colpron Inc - Kubota Canada Ltd Quebec Women's Institute Shur-Gain Valacta Friend $100 - $499 Ayrshire Canada Canadian Sheep Breeders' Association Jersey Canada Jersey Québec La Financière agricoles du Québec Leahy Orchards Quebec Angus Quebec Herefords Rawdon Rural Association Syngenta Salon de l'AgricultureSimmental Québec Société Ayrshire du Québec Société des éleveurs de moutons de race pur du Québec Union des producteurs agricoles
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2014 Annual Report
Quebec 4-H Macdonald College, Harrison House 3-04, 21,111 Lakeshore Road, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9 Tel: 514-398-8738 Fax: 514-398-8652 office@quebec4-h.com