“Find Your Spark” is the theme of this year’s National 4-H Week.

On September 7, Governor Mike Parson signed a proclamation designating the week of October 3 through the 9th as National 4-H Week in Missouri, in efforts to encourage Missourians to recognize 4-H’s significant role in empowering youths in the state.

The Director of the University of Missouri Extension 4-H Center for Youth Development, Lupita Fabrehas says the theme celebrates the resilience of young people who have brought about significant innovations in agriculture and technology.

According to a press release, National 4-H Week is celebrated across Missouri in many ways.

Fabrehas says many clubs use this time to kick off the new 4-H programming year with window displays, yard signs, radio spots and fun family activities such as scavenger hunts and scarecrow contests. Some clubs use this time for service-learning projects, like thanking first responders or veterans for their service. This is also a popular time for awards and recognition nights when youths are celebrated for completing projects.

The Wednesday of National 4-H Week is recognized as 4-H Spirit Day. Many 4-H’ers use this day to recruit new members.

To learn more about how to get involved, visit 4h.missouri.edu.