WHEREAS, The 4-H Youth Development Program of Washington State
University Extension has assisted the young people in Washington to
develop essential "life skills" since it was established in 1902; and
WHEREAS, The program centers on teaching young people to become
productive members of society by fostering citizenship, science, math,
and technology literacy, health and wellness, communication, and
decision-making skills; and
WHEREAS, Nearly 90,000 young people and 8,000 adult volunteers
throughout Washington participated in 4-H Youth Development Programs in
2011; and
WHEREAS, These programs helped participants learn about a wide
variety of subjects including science, family living, applied arts, and
government activism; and
WHEREAS, These programs work with traditional community clubs and
reach youth through urban groups, special interest groups, nutrition
programs, after school programs, camping, and interagency learning
experiences; and
WHEREAS, More than 300 4-H members from around the state are
currently visiting the state capitol as part of an annual statewide
educational program titled "4-H Know Your Government;" and
WHEREAS, The 4-H Know Your Government program focused this year on
the election process, including building a political platform based on
community issues and electing a candidate and bettering the
understanding of the issues related to pivotal political happenings;
and
WHEREAS, 4-H will continue its dedication to empower young people
to become active global citizens and realize the value, significance,
and responsibility of taking part in local, regional, state, national,
and international community issues;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the members of the Washington
State House of Representatives recognize the 4-H Youth Development
Program for its many contributions to the youth of Washington and the
betterment of our communities; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be
immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk to Pat BoyEs, the State 4-H
Director for the Washington State University Extension 4-H Youth
Development Program.