The future of farming in British Columbia is in good hands. On behalf of Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick, Abbotsford-South MLA Darryl Plecas will be at the closing ceremonies of the Abbotsford Agrifair tonight congratulating 4-H British Columbia and their contribution to this year’s Best Little Country Fair.

Plecas will also be presenting 4-H British Columbia with a cheque for $87,000 – the B.C. government’s financial commitment to the program each fiscal year. The funding is part of a ten-year memorandum of understanding that was signed last year and a commitment to today’s youth for agriculture tomorrow.

From the six-year-old Cloverbud member to the 21-year-old 4-H ambassador, 4-H British Columbia has been teaching the four H’s to the province’s young people for more than 100 years.

The members learn that 4-H stands for head, heart, hands and health and they pledge:

• My HEAD to clearer thinking,
• My HEART to greater loyalty,
• My HANDS to larger service,
• My HEALTH to better living,
• For my club, my community and my country.

The Ministry of Agriculture Youth Development staff work closely with 4-H clubs and their registered volunteers in 50 communities throughout B.C. Together, they deliver material and programs that get youth excited about the opportunities in agriculture. The club encourages its members to become involved in their communities and many have grown up to be agriculture leaders.

(flickr.com)

Abbotsford-South MLA Darryl Plecas –

“4-H British Columbia provides a vital link between young people and agriculture, and offers a transfer of knowledge from one generation to another through many of the club’s adult volunteers. The B.C. government is honoured to have a close partnership with 4-H as we continue to share the passion and excitement for farming and agriculture.”

Claudette Martin, manager, 4-H British Columbia –

“The success of the 4-H program in British Columbia is largely due to the unique and collaborative partnership we have with the Ministry of Agriculture. We are thrilled and delighted to work together, giving world-class experiences in leadership, communication, responsibility, community citizenship, and personal development through programs to B.C.’s youth. We are extremely grateful for the minister’s continued contribution to 4-H BC.”

Ernie Silveri, president, Abbotsford Agrifair –

“On behalf of the board of directors of Abbotsford Agrifair, we would like to extend a thank you to all the 4-H participants’ current and past that have helped make Agrifair what it is today. We look forward to many more years of successful partnership.”

Learn More:

For more information about 4-H British Columbia: http://www.bc4h.bc.ca/home

Abbotsford Agrifair: http://www.agrifair.ca/