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4-H clover County 4-H'er Honored by Kiwanis Sunrisers of Winona

Riley Ward was recognized as the Winona 4-H Youth Representative for September. She is the daughter of Minnie and Randy Ward, and is a senior at St. Charles High School. Riley is a member of the Home is Where the Herd is 4-H Club, and she is currently serving on the Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador team. 

In addition to being an active 4-H club member and 4-H state ambassador, Riley has participated in a wide variety of events and project areas, including dairy, goats, rabbits, photography, needle arts and creative writing. She has also attended Regional Camp at Whitewater, BLU and YELLO leadership workshops, and she has exhibited at the Minnesota State Fair.

When asked about her favorite project area, Riley responded, “I don’t have a favorite project area as being at the state fair reminds me that each project (static or livestock) has a unique individuality to them. This is partially due to the fact that I love trying new things and learning the way of the craft. However, the bond between 4-H’ers and their livestock does invoke the pride of 4-H in my heart.” 

Riley’s greatest 4-H accomplishment is all of the friends she has made. “Not only are several of them also Minnesota 4-H State Ambassadors, such as myself, but they’re my former campers, people I’ve met during judging, attending national trips and the people I greeted at the 4-H building.”

Riley’s willingness to try new things in 4-H has also taught her things about herself, “ I learned how to have confidence. At the beginning of my 4-H career, I struggled to advocate for myself, I wasn't sure how to interact with other youth or even adults. I didn't want to speak out for the fear of public humiliation. Yet, just last week, I was on the radio giving an interview about all the opportunities 4-H creates for youth within the state of Minnesota. Shortly after, I was privileged to co-lead the University of Minnesota President, Joan Gabel, through the 4-H building located at the state fair. 4-H and its many opportunities helped me achieve this level of confidence in myself and I will continue to spread it for as long as I can.”

Winona Sunrisers Kiwanis Club honors one outstanding Winona County 4-H member during its breakfast meeting on the fourth Wednesday of each month. The club meets every week on Wednesday at 7 a.m. at the Winona Family Restaurant in Winona. 

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