The annual tradition of the Citrus Stampede Rodeo is returning to our hometown this week.

4H Investing in Future Leaders

The Fairgrounds in Inverness is a beehive of activity. The stockman rolling in with trailers loaded with horses, bulls, and calves. Cowboys and cowgirls following their GPS directions through quiet country roads and small towns. Around the arena, vendors setting up to offer BBQ, pizza, hot dogs, funnel cakes, ice cream, and all the favorite treats. A few more selling hats, belts, and sought-after Rodeo accessories.

For the smallest Rodeo fans, the 4-H Kiddie Korral is the place to start the night. Face painting, roping practice, games, balloons are sure to excite the little buckaroos. This year the bounce house may be a destination to check out and explore. All around family-friendly fun for a down-home good time. At the 4-H Booth just inside the gate, welcoming youth and 4-H club leaders sharing the impact of the 4-H program. Growing the next generation of community leaders through citizenship, leadership, and service.

Behind the lights, fun, and energy is a mission. The “why” this event comes to our community every year. It’s because of the Citrus County 4-H Foundation directors. A group of dedicated men and women that give of their time, talents, and energy to support the future of young people in our community. Over the past 26 years, they have advocated for the youth in Citrus County, supporting our community as strong promoters for positive youth development with collaboration and resource development. As a result, 4-H programs are open and available to all youth through 4-H club membership, school enrichment, camps, and workshops.

You might ask yourself: “Does 4-H make a difference in the lives and futures of youth in our community?” Yes, it does!! In fact, 4-H youth development impacts the lives of young people across the county, state, and nation. When compared to their peers, young people in 4-H are:

o   Four times more likely to make contributions to their communities

o   Two times more likely to be civically active

o   Two times more likely to make healthier choices

o   Two times more likely to participate in science programming during out-of-school time

Interested in learning more about becoming a 4-H member or adult volunteer? Contact the UF/IFAS Extension Citrus County office and ask for Miss Marnie, 4-H Agent. 4-H is the positive youth development program of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Science (UF/IFAS), and we impact over 3000 youth in Citrus County every year through membership in 4-H Clubs, school enrichment, and summer day-camp programs.