Education
4-H clubs alive and well in Lehi
“I pledge my head to clearer thinking
My heart to greater loyalty
My hands to larger service
And my health to better living
For my club, my community, and my country”
Sound familiar? If yes, you are among the millions who have been involved in 4-H, a federally sponsored program for youth, 4-H has influenced young people for over 100 years. It is the largest positive youth development program in the nation. Utah State University Extension Services sponsors 4-H in Utah.
One of the many 4-H clubs in Lehi is the Seeds of Gratitude Club. Started last year by Maria Fox, a self-proclaimed gardening junkie, the club has 14 members ranging in age from 8-17. It is a nationally registered club in the junior masters gardening program.
Fox wanted the young members of her 4-H club to know the joy of planting, weeding, and harvesting a wide variety of vegetables. “We have planted vegetables that are uncommon. We have black tomatoes, blue potatoes, and purple peppers along with the usual squash, cucumber, carrots, onions, and garlic,” said Fox.
Audrey Butikofer, a seeds of Gratitude club member. | Donna Barnes
Audrey Butikofer, an eager Seeds of Gratitude Club member, said, “Gardening takes a lot of attention. You can’t let it alone.”
Fox plans to do a neighborhood farmer’s market and use the money to plan a fall party. “We have also picked up trash along roads and plan to drop off vegetables to local families. The club members should experience service,” said Fox.
The members of the club will visit a raspberry farm in northern Utah to learn how to plant and care for raspberries. Club members are also learning water conservation methods and how to grow water resistant plants. They will be able to utilize this valuable information in their own gardens and yards.
