4-H recognizes local alumni

Shannon LeClair

Times Reporter

 

Langdon resident Matt Tanner has been involved with 4-H for almost as long as he can remember. He started with the Bow Valley 4-H club in the late 80’s and decided to stay with it. While growing up, Tanner continued to volunteer his time before his kids were born. Lately he has found himself helping out once again now that his kids are members. 

“I think it’s something most rural kids get involved with,” said Tanner. 

On March 16, Tanner was recognized by UFA and Alberta 4-H for his noteworthy contributions to the community. 

“Matt was chosen by UFA, as he has returned to his community after post secondary education, he continues to farm, be involved in 4-H as a leader, and continues to volunteer with the Bow Valley Ag Society,” said Jessica Barrie, Marketing Communication Specialist for UFA. 

“He has a young family, and his involvement in the community provides an excellent role model and leader for future generations.”

Every year the UFA 4-H Alumni Service Award recognizes people who have made a contribution to their community’s development and advancement. They also recognize those who demonstrate leadership through volunteer work. All 4-H alumni recipients must be between the ages of 20 and 35, have pursued post-secondary education, have returned and stayed committed to their rural routes and have been a 4-H volunteer for at least two years. 

Tanner credits 4-H for helping him overcome his shyness, while giving him skills he can use everyday on the farm.

“It taught me how to take care of animals, how to feed them properly and how to manage money,” said Tanner.

“Public speaking was one of the biggest skills I probably got out of it.”

In his day 4-H was a beef club, but these days there are a variety of projects for the kids, from sewing to photography. 

“I think there’s not as many farmers anymore, so there’s less kids that are doing agriculture,” said Tanner.

“I think by opening up other avenues to get involved with it, it’s still keeping kids in touch with the rural side of things.”

Tanner said he would recommend 4-H to anyone interested. In addition to his UFA 4-H Alumni Service Award, Tanner received a gift certificate for $2,000 for UFA.