Governor Gianforte Celebrates National 4-H Week In Eastern Montana

SIDNEY, MT – Governor Greg Gianforte celebrated National 4-H Week with young Montanans in eastern Montana last week.

"Our 4-H programs in rural Montana are raising the next generation of leaders and making our communities stronger," Gianforte said. "I am always impressed to visit with young Montanans who are passionate about their projects."

During a visit to the Richland County Fairgrounds, the governor got an overview from over 50 4-H members on their projects and awards won at the Summer 2024 Richland County Fair and Rodeo.

Serving nearly 20,000 Montana kids in all 56 counties each year, Montana 4-H is the largest out-of-school youth development program in the state.

4-H offers more than 200 different projects and experiences that actively engage youth in learning and developing the life skills needed to prepare for meaningful employment, make a positive impact as leaders in their communities, and become well-informed citizens who actively engage in their communities and the world.

This year, Richland County 4-H students raised award-winning steer, goats, and pigs, while also exploring projects like painting, cake decorating, woodworking, ironworking, quilting, floral designing, and music.

In Fallon County, the governor visited with 4-H members to hear about their livestock and indoor projects.

The Fallon County 4-H has over 180 young members and 26 leaders who've completed over 27 projects this year for the fair. One team leader, Kennedy, shared with the governor more about her involvement.

"I've been in 4-H for 10 years. I show horses and swine and do indoor projects such as sewing and leathercraft needlepoint. I've never been into sports, so through 4-H and FFA, I've been able to show off my skills," Kennedy said.

Concluding the visit and joining members, Gov. Gianforte read and signed a proclamation to declare the week National 4-H Week in Montana

In December 2022, the governor contributed a quarter of his annual governor's salary to the Montana 4-H Foundation, a youth development program empowering young Montanans to lead for a lifetime.