4-H auction raises spirits, funds
EAST BUTLER — A Butler County 4-H tradition was renewed at the East Butler Firemen's Hall Saturday evening.
Nearly 200 people attended the 14th benefit auction, which raises money that will be used to send members to leadership events at the local, state, regional and national levels, as well as fund scholarships for those who will soon be graduating.
4-H members solicited item donations from residents and businesses. They included everything from quilts and blankets to toys and games to 4-H and outdoor-themed shirts and hats.
And gift baskets ... tables full of gift baskets.
Members stood in front of the crowd, holding each item for display while they were auctioned off.
“The kids really like this event because they get to be on stage,” said Amy Metrick, a 4-H educator who oversees all 250 youths involved in the county. “Our goal is to raise $10,000. This and the petting zoo we hold every year at the Big Butler Fair are our two biggest fundraisers.”Amanda Morrison, 12, of Adams Township, worked at a table selling baked goods Saturday. She is part of Hearth and Home, one of many clubs offered by 4-H.“My club focuses on sewing and cooking, but we've also learned about gardening and photography,” Amanda said. “I've really enjoyed it. Everyone is nice and there are a lot of activities that boost your confidence.”4-H has been having that type of positive effect on youths for generations.Shawna Littlejohn, of Butler, heads Town and Country Kids, another 4-H club. All four of her children have been involved, including current members Elizabeth, 10, and Brody, 7.“I started in 4-H when I was 10,” Shawna said. “My mom, Glenda Coughenour, has been a leader within 4-H for 31 years.“My oldest daughter, Samantha Melhorn, is now a professional photographer and owns her own business. She has often said that it was her time in 4-H that gave her tools for life, things she needed to be successful.”Butler resident Mark Edinboro, 19, is in his last year of 4-H. He is involved in the Drone and Bullseye Shooting clubs.“I've learned a lot of leadership skills and I've also become a lot braver in front of crowds,” he said. “I will still support 4-H even after I leave.”Metrick grew up in Mount Chestnut. She experienced the benefits of being involved in 4-H and now relishes the chance to see the organization influence this generation's youth.“It's an excellent program,” she said. “Our main goal is to teach leadership skills and responsibility, so they can become outstanding people.“We like to say that we're growing great kids.”
