Purdue Extension Wayne County Office welcomed its new 4-H Youth Development Educator Kendell Wolfe in November.
Wolfe is a Hagerstown High School and Purdue University graduate and was previously in agriculture retail sales. She comes with Extension knowledge as she interned in Wayne County’s office while in college.
Her new role combines her passions of education and agriculture while connecting with her community.
Wolfe said she’s excited to serve Wayne County and its local youth through 4-H and science, technology, engineering and math programming.
It’s now time for students to enroll in this year’s 4-H program. It is open to any Wayne County youth in grades K-12. They can visit 4honline.com to register.
Wolfe is working to broaden local interest in the organization, because when families hear “4-H,” they might immediately think of livestock, she said.
Although 4-H offers animal science projects that are beloved by many, Wolfe said, she emphasized that 4-H is a comprehensive youth development program that encompasses a wide range of interests and skills.
“Your student may have a knack for taking pictures or creating artwork,” Wolfe said. “Maybe they like to tinker with electronics or help out in the kitchen? Or, do they enjoy gardening or computer games? Whatever their interests may be, 4-H offers projects where they can explore and grow.”
Wolfe said 4-H’s goal is to assist young people in developing valuable life skills that will serve them well into adulthood.
“The program’s hands-on approach is proven to grow young people’s confidence, independence, resilience and compassion through experiences, not instruction,” Wolfe said. “The 4-H motto is ‘To Make the Best Better,’ and we would love to partner with you and our county’s youth to do just that.”
Those who are interested in joining 4-H or have questions can contact Wolfe at 765-973-9281 or combs30@purdue.edu.
A version of this article appeared in the January 8 2025 print edition of the Western Wayne News.