Extension in Wilkin County

Jessica Pauna, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
pauna011@umn.edu or 218-643-5481

Extension brings Minnesotans together to build a better future through University science-based knowledge, expertise and training. Learn more about Extension by visiting our about page and by browsing this website. 

4-H by the numbers

• Wilkin County 4-H served 207 youth and 46 adult volunteers in 2022.
• Those youth attended more than 23 different programs, and are from 5 local clubs.
• Many of our clubs and programs meet multiple times throughout the year.
• This year we reached 21% of the local youth population. This is the highest reach we have achieved in over 25 years!
• Wilkin County welcomed 72 brand new enrolled youth members through a program agreement with Breckenridge Public Schools summer school program. These new members participated in a 5-week summer paper and printmaking project workshop led by Extension staff.

County Ambassadors are learning, leading, and recruiting

We revived the county Ambassador program in 2022, with four youths who successfully applied, interviewed, and completed the selection process! 

They chose the recruitment of new 4-H members as a priority. Together our four-county ambassadors planned, prepared, and executed 4-H recruitment booths at student showcase nights with Breckenridge Public School and back-to-school night at St Mary’s School. Their passion for 4-H is overflowing. Together they inspired new families to join local clubs.

Sparks are an essential ingredient of thriving

A spark is a passion for a self-identified interest or skill or a capacity that metaphorically lights a fire in a young person’s life, providing energy, joy, purpose, and direction. Sparks give a young person a sense of direction, encourage goal setting, and build connections between young people and knowledgeable adults.

Sparks enhance a young person's relationship with others

Tyler L.’s first year in the beef project has been a learning experience he won’t soon forget! 
As a Wahpeton resident, Tyler’s animal science project wouldn’t be possible without the help of his project mentors--the Lent family. Because of his project mentors, Tyler was able to raise three heifers, exhibit at the Wilkin County Fair, and earn his first trip to the Minnesota State Fair.

Here is what Tyler’s family has to say about his participation in 4-H:

“I can't even come up with the words to express how proud of this kid I am. He has come a long way in a very short time. It wasn't always easy and lots of work and dedication on both his part as well as ours. Thank you  [to his project mentors] for helping him, and always encouraging him to always try his best and never give up.”-- Lynda Wahl, 4-H parent and volunteer

Sparks create actions that benefit young people and communities

That community could be as small as their family or circle of friends, or as broad as their school, town, or county. In 4-H, we want to support youth in becoming increasingly connected. To feel a deepening sense of commitment, pride, and willingness to contribute. Community service and volunteerism are some of the top five sparks among young people nationwide, and Wilkin County 4-H youth are no different! Local clubs took on more than 10 service projects in 2022. These projects ranged in skills and expertise--whether cleaning ditches, planting and watering flowerpots, bringing meals to local residents unable to leave their homes, or setting up the buildings before the county fair, our 4-H youth are putting their hands to larger service in many ways countywide.

Online and virtual programs sustain interest among young people

13 local youth participated in 9 virtual programs in 2022. The virtual events covered topics like animal science, horses, gardening, parks and outdoor recreation, photography, science and aerospace, youth leadership, and foods.

Afterschool 4-H clubs encourage youth to grow and explore their sparks

4-H afterschool programs meet youth needs by providing high-quality learning environments and connecting young people with caring adults. Our afterschool programs are for youth in grades K-2 (Cloverbuds). Wilkin County 4-H’s afterschool programs came roaring back to life after COVID-19! We had 36 youths participate in the spring semester, and 45 are participating this fall. But, the Cloverbud experience doesn’t stay within the school year. In 2022, Cloverbuds brought more than 100 exhibits to the Wilkin County Fair!

Give to Wilkin County 4-H

Gifts support 4-H youth development in Wilkin County and local programming coordinated by the Wilkin County 4-H Council. 

Give today

Welcome!

We are so excited that you are considering being a part of Minnesota 4-H! 4-H is America's largest youth development organization--empowering over six million young people with skills that last a lifetime. In 4-H we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us! We hope that you and your family will enjoy exploring all that 4-H has to offer!

Interested in joining Wilkin County 4-H? Learn more here!

We are so happy that you are considering 4-H as an option for your family!

4-H welcomes ALL youth in grades K through 13. Being a part of the nation's largest youth development program will offer hands-on learning experiences in a variety of areas to help them gain life and leadership skills to last a lifetime.

When parents from Wilkin County were asked what they liked best about 4-H they said:

• "I'm always learning new things alongside my kid."   
• "I loved having my kids be in 4-H Afterschool Cloverbuds because they spent less time on screens/devices."                   
• "I enjoy seeing kids learn and try new things, especially now that my child is involved with 4-H."
• "I'm surprised by the things my kids find interesting when they are picking out what projects they want to bring to the fair." 

There are several ways to join or re-enroll in 4-H. 

• Join 4-H for the first time or re-enroll
• Enroll as an independent member
• Get in touch with us at the Wilkin County Extension Office by calling 218-643-5481 or emailing mnext-wilkin@umn.edu
• Download the Minnesota 4-H app on your mobile device

Make a Difference

As a 4-H volunteer, you are a valued partner of the University of Minnesota Extension! You complete the important role of helping our youth "learn by doing." You create life-changing experiences, share your expertise and skills, and work alongside 4-H youth members to grow together and build a strong Minnesota! We are excited to have you join us as we empower our young people to reach their full potential and "make the best better!"

Why volunteer with 4-H?

• YOU can support youth in 4-H
• YOU can help others
• YOU can make a difference

4-H is a unique organization where youth can learn how to solve problems, make decisions, and communicate ideas. All learning is hands-on and backed by university research. You can make a BIG impact in the lives of young people all while passing on your knowledge to the next generation!

Ways to help

There are many ways to volunteer and serve with the members of Wilkin County 4-H. Whether you have a busy schedule or a ton of spare time, there is a volunteer role for you!

• Lead a Club: Work alongside youth to provide support to your 4-H Club.
• Teach a Skill: Share your strengths with youth at a one-time workshop or clinic series.
• Join a Committee: Help shape youth in Wilkin County 4-H by serving on a local committee.
• Judge Projects: Provide personal and detailed feedback to youth on the projects they bring to the Wilkin County Fair.
• Help with Events: Support 4-H'ers as they plan and execute activities and events.
• Guide our Leaders: Serve as a mentor to our 4-H youth members who take part in our leadership programs.

Types of Volunteers

Screened Volunteer

A screened Minnesota 4-H Volunteer is an adult who will be one of two required adults to provide supervision to youth at the 4-H program; make decisions on behalf of the 4-H program, handle funds as part of 4-H events, and will have access to private data of 4-H members or other volunteers. Screened volunteers have completed the volunteer screening process, been accepted, and enrolled as Minnesota 4-H volunteers.

Adult Helper

An adult helper is someone who gives their time and/or expertise to 4-H education programs, activities, or outings in a manner that does not require status as a screened Minnesota 4-H Volunteer. Adult helpers must be under the direct supervision of two or more screened Minnesota 4-H Volunteers or Extension Department of Youth Development employees.

Examples of Roles

• Guest speaker/presenter
• Event Worker (e.g horse show helpers, livestock show announcer, club activity helper)
• Snack servers at 4-H Club meetings or events
• Adults are asked to contribute on a one-time basis or asked occasionally to supervise or assist with a program/activity while working under the direction of two or more screened Minnesota 4-H Volunteers and/or staff.

Volunteer Resources

Volunteering with Minnesota 4-H can be a very rewarding experience. To learn more about becoming a Minnesota 4-H Volunteer, visit the volunteer website. 

• Volunteer Application
• Volunteer Impact Study
• Judging at the County Fair
• 4-H Volunteer Resource Center

Explore your opportunities in Wilkin County 4-H

4-H Youth Development is a hands-on learning program for Minnesota youth. We offer online, small group, and independent learning experiences for youth of all ages. In 4-H, youth choose the topic they find interesting, and caring adults support their learning and leadership. From agronomy to space exploration and creative arts to outdoor adventures, 4-H has just the right learning experience for young people.

There are many ways to participate in 4-H!

Wilkin County 4-H Clubs

Afterschool clubs

• Campbell/Tintah Cloverbuds Afterschool, in Campbell, MN (Grades K-2)
• Rothsay Cloverbuds Afterschool, in Rothsay, MN (Grades K-2)
• St. Mary's Cloverbuds Afterschool, in Breckenridge, MN (Grades K-2)
• Twin Towns Cloverbuds Afterschool, in Breckenridge, MN (Grades K-2)

Community clubs

• Breck Bolts in Breckenridge, MN (Grades K-13)
• Campbell Busy Bees in Campbell, MN (Grades K-13)
• Deep Valley in Breckenridge, MN (Grades K-13)
• Kent Quad-H in Kent, MN (Grades K-13)
• North Stars in Breckenridge, MN (Grades K-13)
• Rothsay Club (New in 2023) in Rothsay, MN. (Grades K-13)

Learn more about how to get in contact with the club and when & where they meet: Wilkin County 4-H Club Information. Looking for more information, please contact the Wilkin County Extension Office at 218-643-5481 or mnext-wilkin@umn.edu.

Already enrolled in Wilkin County 4-H? Great we are happy to have you!

We know that being a 4-H'er is important to young people, and it comes with TONS of information. Keep yourself organized and on track for a successful fun-filled year of activities, gatherings & friendships by downloading the Minnesota 4-H app. Wilkin County 4-H is happy to provide information at your fingertips! The Minnesota 4-H app is active year-round for your convenience and contains many resources that are vital to participating in 4-H.  From various program information to the 4-H year schedule & community club resources, this app will keep you up to date with our local county program!

Download the Minnesota 4-H app

Downloading the app is easy, go into your app store, search for Minnesota 4-H, and download the app. Once you have the app downloaded, choose Wilkin County and you will be connected with all the current information, guides, programs, events, schedules, social media, and more!

• Apple users: App Store
• Droid users: Google Play 

Here are some other helpful ways to keep up to date with Wilkin County 4-H.

• Follow us on social media: Facebook
• Add our Google Member Calendar to your personal calendar: Wilkin County 4-H Member Calendar

Our favorite season is fair season!

Greetings Wilkin County 4-H’ers, families and friends!

Our favorite season is fair season! We are so excited that you are a part of Wilkin County 4-H, and hope you choose to exhibit at the Wilkin County Fair!

4-H Achievement Days will be on July 26 and 27, 2024 and the Wilkin County Fair will be on August 22 to 25, 2024! The achievement days offer youth an opportunity to showcase what they have learned and worked hard on throughout the year. This evaluation of exhibits is unique to 4-H and also creates a pathway for youth to bring their best exhibits to the Minnesota State Fair later this summer.

This is the time to share your talents! Explore the many project areas and find the entry area that resonates with you. We can’t wait to see what you will choose to bring to the fair! Now is the time to start planning your showcase experience. The county fair book outlines all the rules & regulations for any exhibits you will bring to the fair, how to pre-register for the fair, a full schedule of events, and some FAQs.

NEW IN 2024 - Please note that fair registration will open on June 15, 2024 and close on July 1, 2024 due 4-H Achievement Days taking place in July.

Questions? The Wilkin County Extension staff are here for YOU! Please, reach out with any questions that you have. We can be reached at 218-643-5481 or mnext-wilkin@umn.edu. The more you ask, the more you know! We are committed to helping your family have a fun and successful 4-H experience.

Helpful Links:

• FairEntry 
• Exhibit Planner 
• Fair Book 

See you at the Fair!

Jessica Pauna, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
pauna011@umn.edu or 218-643-5481

Wilkin County Extension does not have an Agriculture Program locally. Have questions? We have the answers, the resources, and the referrals.

Visit our online resources:

• Crop Production
• Animals & Livestock
• Managing a Farm

Contact the Farm Information Line for all your agriculture needs:

Farm Information Line: 1-800-232-9077

• Become a Master Gardener volunteer
• Master Naturalist volunteers work in your community

Wilkin County Extension does not have a Master Gardener Program locally. Find plants, ask an expert, and diagnose a problem through our online gardening resources.

Contact a Master Gardener for all your gardening questions:

Yard & Garden Line: 612-301-7590

Extension offers a variety of educational programs about nutrition and health in Wilkin County. These programs are open to families and individuals of all ages who are eligible for benefits through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or who meet Extension’s program income guidelines.

Programs are offered in community settings such as food shelves, schools, community centers and public housing sites. The programs are free to all individuals and families who meet income guidelines, and may be offered in multiple languages, depending on the audience needs and availability of educators.

Use the Real Life, Good Food website to find recipes, cooking tips and physical activity ideas for a healthier life.

Wilkin County Extension does not have a health and nutrition program locally. 

Have questions? Contact the Wilkin County Extension Office: mnext-wilkin.umn.edu or 218-643-5481

Extension engages Minnesotans to strengthen the social, civic, economic and technological capacity of their communities. We help create vibrant communities and enhance skills and knowledge in economics, leadership and civic engagement, and tourism.

Check our community research page for reports on county and community-focused topics relating to local economics, retaining businesses, growing retail markets, developing tourism, and more.

Local programs can be offered in collaboration with local community organizations and government agencies. Current programs include:

• Minnesota Agricultural and Rural Leadership (MARL)
• Red River Valley Emerging Leadership Program (ELP)

Contact an educator in your area for consultation, guidance and conversation about your community.

Minnesota is a great place to explore, understand and conserve the natural landscape. Extension education, volunteer and community science programs encourage people to become stewards of Minnesota’s public and private lands.

Volunteer. Natural resources volunteers track invasive species, detect forest pests and count native bees, among many other activities. You also can study to become a Minnesota Master Naturalist.

Extension's Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP) connect Greater Minnesota communities and University of Minnesota knowledge and resources to support local sustainability projects.

Working in partnership, RSDP supports community-driven projects in four focus areas: agriculture and food systems, clean energy, natural resources, and resilient communities. Projects are supported by boards made up of local community members and University faculty and staff.

Learn more about RSDP’s recent work in your county and neighboring communities, and how to submit a project idea.