4-H accomplishment records important for future opportunity

Record keeping is not a favorite of many people. Some forms of record keeping like having the winning football score or scrapbooking memories provide enjoyment. This is especially true when individuals can reflect back on great moments in life. The 4-Her learns and is responsible for many different types of record keeping that in some cases is project specific while in other cases it involves the entire 4-H career.

All 4-Hers should complete and submit "My Record of Achievement" forms to the Extension office as soon as possible. These forms allow the Extension staff to tally points based on the activities of the 4-Her during year. These points continue to accumulate during the career of the 4-Her which may potentially encompass ten years.

It is nearing the end of the year so to speak in the Extension office as many reports are being compiled and completed. These data though are not simply for the office staff to report activity, rather they are important for the 4-Her to be eligible for awards and to accurately document activity on resume's, scholarship applications and other communication mechanisms.

Awards given to 4-Hers at the upcoming Nov. 5, 4-H Achievement and Leader Recognition night will be one reflection of reporting 4-H activity. One of the most coveted 4-H awards, won by Grace Aker in 2010, is the "Spirit of 4-H" award.

This award is based on the total number of community service activities, projects, attitude, and relationship with peers, etc. that one accumulates during his or her entire 4-H career.

When completing a scholarship application, a complete and current folder containing all submitted "My Record of Achievement" forms is a good place to start to summarize all of the activities and projects where learning occurred.

Being in 4-H is certainly not a requirement to get into college. However showing dedication by being a 10-year 4-Her and participating in the learning activities of projects is a help. For example, students' who desire acceptance into vet school or nursing school, being able to state that they were in livestock and vet science or health projects, respectively, reflects very positively for these students.

The due date is Sept. 9 to assure consideration for 2011 awards. Please call if you have questions or ask your 4-H leader who will be willing to help. The form is on the Purdue Extension-Putnam County website.

Check our website www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam to view the most up to date info. Also all interested in the Putnam County 4-H program are encouraged to join the Putnam County 4-H Facebook group which has more than members.

Contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 653-8411 for more information regarding column topics or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs.

While many publications are free, some do have a fee.

Upcoming Events

Sept. 7 -- Week Two of FALL Walking Wednesdays 5 p.m. People Pathways -- at Big Walnut Sport Park (Shelter on South side of Park)

Sept. 8 -- Extension Homemakers County Council, 7 p.m., Extension Office

Sept. 9 -- 4-H My Record of Achievement Forms Due, Extension Office

Sept. 12 -- Extension Homemakers Leader Lesson "Recess Time" 7 p.m. at Extension Office

Sept. 14 -- Week Three of Walking Wednesday 5 p.m. Start in front of old Hibbitt Sports Store (in front of Wal-Mart)