Lancaster County 4-H presents a Heart of 4-H Award to a Lancaster County 4-H volunteer each month in recognition of outstanding volunteer serice. The purpose of this award is to recognize volunteers who are, indeed, the heart of 4-H.
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John and Lori have been co-leaders of the Happy Go Lucky club, the largest 4-H club in Lancaster County (currently with 52 members), for three years. Prior to that, they were parent volunteers. They are also active on the Livestock VIPS Committee.
Happy Go Lucky is mainly a livestock club, but in the past few years members increasely participated in food, horticulture and poultry projects. The club holds a annual club livestock show prior to the county fair to give members practice showing animals. As a community service project, the club has adopted a section of Highway 43 near Bennet to pick up litter.
4-H staff member Deanna Karmazin says, "They bring a lot of enthusiam and energy to the livestock program. Because of their willingness and hard work ethic, the recent leadership transition of the Happy Go Lucky club went smoothly."
"We like being 4-H volunteers because it is rewarding to see the kids show and exhibit there projects with pride and enthusiasm," said Lori. "It is a great feeling to think that we have made a difference."
Married for 24 years, the couple has three children who are current or alumni 4-H members. John has been a volunteer fireman with the Bennet Rural Fire District for 26 years and Lori helps coach volleyball. Each have full time jobs and farm part-time.