National 4-H Week will be observed in Polk County through Oct. 11.

Chairman Marshelle Thaxton, Polk County Board of Commissioners, has signed a proclamation, which calls attention to the importance of this group of future community leaders.

More than 600 active 4-H members from fifth through 12th grades are enrolled in Polk County. Program Assistants Pat Murray and Dora Williams meet with members in schools and after school programs.

These 4-H’ers continue the tradition of participating in community projects. This year, they donated items to the Adult Learning Center, Our House, Samaritan House, and collected pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald Charities. They traveled to Rock Eagle several times during the year where they met with other 4-H’ers and completed projects for the service men and women and backpacks for children.

“Polk County 4-H program offer so much to the youth here,” said Pat Murray, Program Assistant 4-H Youth, “There is a project in 4-H for almost everyone. Participants learn through judging events, fun activities, community volunteering and statewide competitions.”

In Polk County, 4-H activities include 4-H Day at the Capitol, State Council, Junior Rally, Junior and Senior Camps, Cloverleaf camps, Project Achievement, Cotton Boll/Consumer Jamboree, Poultry Judging, and educational summer trips to area museums and Unicoi State Park.

Adult volunteers are always needed to help with competitions and project work. To find out more about becoming a volunteer for Polk County 4-H Club or about 4-H programming contact Polk County Extension Office at 770-749-2142 or visit the office at 20 North Main Street in Cedartown.

The proclamation noted:

The 4-H program has assisted in the growth and development of Georgia and County youths for 106 years.

Adult volunteers and leaders devote their talent, leadership and resources to serving these leaders of tomorrow.

4-H helps its members discover and acquire the essential elements of positive youth development of mastery, generosity, belonging and independence in the areas of citizenship, healthy living and science.

The program involves young people and adults that become involved in the educational programs offered in Polk County through the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Cooperative Extension.