Three Decatur County Cloverleaf (fourth- sixth-graders) 4-H’ers traveled to Moultrie to participate in District Project Achievement on Nov. 20.

4-H’ers had the opportunity to choose from more than 60 project areas for their demonstration, proving that 4-H is more than cows and cooking by offering such an array of opportunities for the youth. Some of today’s projects include sports, veterinary science, air science, computers, water conservation, photography, wildlife and performing arts, just to name a few.

Each student provided a five minute speech and used posters and other visual aids to guide them with their demonstration. The demonstrations were observed by judges and other spectators; 4-H’ers were then scored and placed accordingly. First-, second- and third-place winners were recognized at the closing assembly.

4-H’ers from Decatur County encountered stiff competition but still represented well.

Mattie Winburn, fifth-grader at Grace Christian Academy placed first in General Performing Arts.

Savannah Padgett, sixth-grader at Hutto Middle School, brought home second-place honors in the Wildlife Project.

Branch Austinson, fifth-grade homeschool, placed fourth in the Wildlife Project.

Students worked diligently to prepare for the contest months prior to the contest. Congratulations on their accomplishment!

Project Achievement is a core program for Georgia 4-H. By participating in project achievement, 4-H’ers target numerous life skills and gain lifetime experiences. Public speaking, interaction, communication and resiliency are just few traits gained through participation.

In 1905, 4-H work originated in Georgia with the Boys’ Corn Clubs and about five years later, the Girls’ Tomato Canning Clubs were added. 4-H has come a long way and today offers much more.

Since then, the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service’s 4-H and youth program has helped thousands of Georgia youth “learn by doing” to “make their best better.”