Projects Today, Purpose Tomorrow Agricultural Youth Development Programs Prepare Arkansas’s Future Leaders y Youth ag programs are more than just plows and sows. Since the early 1900s, Arkansas 4-H and FFA have served as programs for the state’s youth to participate in personal and professional development projects, community service work and leadership activities. Both programs began with roots in agricultural education, but have expanded to encompass a wide variety of subjects, including science and mathematics, healthy living, and citizenship areas. Through this, the programs create well-rounded members who are passionate about the work they do. Many of Arkansas’s public service leaders began their careers as members of these programs that continue to shape visionary youth today. In Arkansas, the governor, the 4th district U.S. congressman and one senator all share a background in 4-H and FFA. “My dad was a farmer, and I loved our farm life. It was natural for me to join 4-H when they started the club in Gravette,” said Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson. Hutchinson said his continued involvement taught him leadership skills, the importance of conservation and stewardship of natural resources, and expanded his project interest in a variety of fields. “The 4-H project I remember most vividly was planting pine trees on our farm. Many of those trees are still growing there,” said Hutchinson. “During my time in 4-H, I learned a lesson that I still value to this day. I learned the importance of finishing every job you start.” Years beyond his time as a 4-H member, Hutchinson continues to support 4-H programming through celebration days at the state capitol and hosting 4-H members at the Governor’s Mansion for leadership awards events, such as the Arkansas 4-H Governor’s Award. “Regardless of the profession a young person wants to enter, the lessons of 4-H will be beneficial for a lifetime. When I was in 4-H, I had no idea I’d be governor of Arkansas, but many of the good habits I learned in 4-H continue to be useful to me today,” said Hutchinson. 4-H and FFA combined serve over 157,800 youth in Arkansas. With the help of dedicated volunteers, families, and alumni, the programs are supported by those who can attest to the impact they make on their members and how they shape future leaders. From Greenhand, a chapter level degree recognition, to State FFA President, U.S. Congressman Bruce Westerman rose through the ranks of FFA during his youth. Westerman began his FFA journey showing pigs at the fair and competing in creed speaking competitions. Westerman said that the motto and parts of the creed are words that still impact him daily. “I reflect on them often, especially as I work on agricultural policy in Congress and in helping my constituents in the fourth district,” said Westerman. Westerman credited FFA for the traits and lessons he learned in high ARKANSAS GROWN 55
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