SUMMER SHADE, Ky. – Kentucky native Linda Branstetter has been actively involved in 4-H for 50 years.

Branstetter’s dedication to youth for five decades hasn’t gone unnoticed as the National 4-H Council announced that she will be inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame during a special ceremony in Pittsburgh, Pa., on Oct. 9.

“Linda is one of the best volunteers I have ever worked with,” said Ken Culp, University of Kentucky 4-H Youth Development specialist, and one who nominated Branstetter for the recognition. “She made certain every child had what they needed for their projects. Whether that was supplies for a specific project or making sure they had transportation, she is always there for 4-Hers. When it comes to someone who should be in the Hall of Fame, Linda checks all the boxes.

“Linda is a real planner, yet she’s an introvert. She’d rather be behind the scenes and doesn’t try to put the spotlight on herself.”

Each year, the Hall of Fame inducts an average of 15 individuals who have made significant contributions to 4-H programs and positively impacted youth’s lives. Recipients include state and national extension specialists and volunteers.

“I was surprised and overwhelmed,” Branstetter said. “Many specialists, volunteers and administrators have been recognized for their work. I can’t believe I would be considered in the same company.”

According to Branstetter, she never gave 4-H a second thought, but her husband’s family was actively involved in 4-H when the two were engaged. Linda’s father-in-law, who was then a 4-H Council president, highly suggested she become involved in 4-H “to become a real part of the family.” Just a few days later, Linda became involved as a 4-H volunteer.

“It wasn’t a volunteer thing, it was a ‘volun-told’ thing,” Culp laughed.

Branstetter taught middle school students, mainly 8th grade U.S. history and social studies.

“She started a 4-H club in her school and she recruited kids to join,” Culp said. “She was ahead of her time in that she looked out for the kid that either didn’t have the parental support or didn’t have access to needed resources. She worked hard at getting every kid in her classroom involved in 4-H.”

In Metcalfe and Hart counties, Branstetter served on the Kentucky Volunteer Forum committee for eight years and worked with 4-Hers on their 4-H projects, talent shows, speeches, leadership and volunteer projects.

“Over the years the good experiences and many memories have encouraged former 4-Hers, who are now parents, to want their children to experience many of the same successes and enjoyment that they had with 4-H,” Branstetter said. “I love seeing former 4-Hers who are now parents with 4-H members actively involved in community programs and clubs such as serving on Extension councils and advisory boards, cattlemen’s associations, homemakers, dairy boards and being a volunteer. I have been delighted to have had the opportunity to work with generations of 4-Hers.”

Her love for 4-H transferred to her children and to her grandchildren. Her two children are agriculture graduates of UK. Her daughter has been a 4-H Youth Development agent for more than 20 years and is now an area director for UK Extension. Her grandchildren are actively involved in 4-H.

“One of the most rewarding parts of being involved with the 4-H program is when former 4-Hers express their appreciation for the skills they learned through the 4-H program,” Branstetter said, “whether it was having the confidence to complete a project, to learn new skills or to speak publicly. Many have told me how important these things were in their life with helping them obtain a job and how much they use these skills in their job and daily life.

“I find that many say the awards and ribbons they received meant so much to them, but the experiences provided far more important and valuable lessons for life.”

Branstetter sees a bright future for 4-H.

“4-H has so many positive aspects and I see a continued bright future for 4-H,” Branstetter said. “The program is always working to stay current and adding new projects to continue to attract many students. 4-H has something for everyone and they are staying true to the motto ‘To Make the Best Better.’”

The National 4-H Hall of Fame was created in 2002 to recognize 4-H volunteers, Extension professionals, staff employees, donors and others who have made a significant impact on the 4-H program. The selection process involves a committee of 18 people with ties with 4-H.