As part of the 100th anniversary of Discovery Days (formerly known as 4-H Round-Up) at K-State, the Kansas 4-H Foundation hosted the Emerald Circle celebration in June at the K-State Student Union and K-State Alumni Center. This event celebrated the philanthropic roots of Kansas 4-H and acknowledged the accomplishments of the 2022 State Project Award winners, highlighting their commitment to leadership, project-based learning and community service.
“Earning a State Project Award is a significant achievement within the Kansas 4-H community, showcasing the determination of these young individuals,” said Dr. Sarah Maass, the state 4-H leader. “This achievement transforms the lives of members and positively influences the communities these youth serve.”
As part of the evening, attendees were able to interact with the awardees and their families as well as hear from speakers including 4-H youth leaders and guest speaker Dan Meers, the mascot of the Kansas City Chiefs. Crystal and Steven Miles, 4-H alumni who attended this year, said they appreciated the event.
“This event allows for opportunities to engage with the young people and their families who are volunteering to better their communities as well as share strengths, listen, and learn from other participants,” Crystal said. “We really enjoyed the conversation with the project winners and their families. The keynote speaker was inspiring with his message of ‘Life can be like a coin, spend it wisely.’”
Crystal was a 4-H member in Leavenworth County. She was involved in project areas including horticulture, forestry, land conservation, creative fiber arts and sewing. Steven was a 4-H member in Osage County where he raised livestock, rode horses and participated in livestock judging.
Crystal and Steven first met at Kansas 4-H Round-Up, which made celebrating the 100th year of this immersive experience even more meaningful. They said events like these demonstrate the value in supporting Kansas 4-H.
“We choose to donate to Kansas 4-H because it empowers youth, who learn by doing,” Crystal said. “We are excited to be part of something lasting to create life skills for Kansas youth.”