“It’s one of the signature organizations in lots of rural communities,” he states. “You can also trace in a straight line the development of many Albertan leaders directly from their experiences in 4-H. The organization has been invaluable in the political development of the province.”

For example, the United Farmers of Alberta grew virtually directly out of the political and public speaking aspects of 4-H, he says.

Epp feels there are three key aspects to 4-H. First, it focuses on the transfer of practical skills to youth in the areas of agriculture, livestock and many other competencies. Secondly, it is an extremely important organization for the development of communications and leadership skills. Finally, he believes it is important as a vehicle for inter-generational engagement and interaction.

These are all important democratic skills that lead to an improved society, believes Epp. By offering opportunities to learn the basic mechanics of how governmental organs such as committees, councils and boards work and through its well-known public speaking program, 4-H ensures youths understand how our various political structures work.

He places particular emphasis on the inter-generational aspect of the organization. “People tend to cluster in age categories and this can weaken the social fabric,” he says. “It’s important for kids to hang out with adults other than their parents. In fostering this, 4H has been an exemplary organization.”

Lucas Grover, a local 4-H ambassador for the East Central 4-H Region, agrees. Not only does he believe that kids benefit from exposure to adult role models outside of their own families, but the adults also benefit from ongoing interaction with the kids. He says computer technology is just one area where the kids can often teach the adults something. “4-H leaders are becoming more aware of our electronic age as a result, and that’s a good thing,” he says.

A member of the Big Valley Outriders, a 4-H horse club, Grover has been involved with 4-H for the past 11 years. Along with Krystal Stulberg, Cole Andrews and Ryan Davidson, he is one of four ambassadors for the East Central region. Each of the seven 4-H regions in Alberta has four ambassadors and becoming one is a particular honour for 4-H members.