LEXINGTON, Ky. – Behind the scenes, many unsung heroes across the country are proudly supporting their communities by creating positive youth development experiences. For 4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, Kentucky agents are going above and beyond with their commitment to helping youth thrive.

Several agents in the Kentucky 4-H Youth Development, part of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, were honored at the recent National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals (NAE4-HYDP) conference.

The NAE4-HYDP awards program recognizes individuals for creating outstanding programming and reaching milestones in 4-H. Each year, the award winners are recognized in front of a myriad of their peers and colleagues in attendance.

“It is a privilege to serve youth, families and communities through Kentucky 4-H,” said Rachel Guidugli, assistant extension director for Kentucky 4-H Youth Development. “Our 4-H professionals open doors and opportunities for all youth to thrive through 4-H. It’s an honor to recognize their hard work.”

The following 4-H extension agents were awarded:

Toni M. Humble, Wayne County Extension office 4-H, with the Specialty Award in the Southern Region and National Level, receiving the 4-H Military Partnership Excellence in Programming Award.

Mary Anne Garnett, Christian County Extension office 4-H, Rebecca Hayes, Carter County Extension office 4-H, and Samantha Saunders, Robertson County Extension office 4-H, with the Achievement in Service (three-five years) in the Southern Region and National Level.

Deana K. Reed, Meade County Extension Office, with the Meritorious Service Award in the Southern Region and National Level. Reed was recognized for 15-plus years of service, innovative youth programming and leadership in the NAE4-HYDP association at the state, regional and/or national level.

Reed, and Misty Wilmoth, LaRue County Extension Office 4-H, with the 25 years of service award in the Southern Region and National Level.

“We are extremely excited and proud of all of our members, and we are elated to have members recognized on the national level as award winners,” said David Gabbard, Kentucky Association of Extension 4-H Agents (KAE4-HA) president and Lincoln County extension agent at Martin-Gatton CAFE.

“This is a time of recognition for these individuals for their hard work and years of dedication.”

The Kentucky 4-H Youth Development mission is to provide education and life skill development opportunities for youth to grow into confident, capable and contributing members of their communities.

Learn more at https://4-h.ca.uky.edu. For more information on Kentucky 4-H programs, contact your local county Extension office.