Dear Spokane County Commissioner, A group of Spokane County 4-H leaders and parents would like the opportunity to meet with you to discuss the future of the Spokane County 4-H Youth Development Program. The 4-H program has been active in Spokane County since the late 1940s, and many of us are alumni whose lives were shaped by participation in 4-H from a very young age. I am a 12 year member alumni and a 38 year leader all in Spokane. We care deeply about the program and its continued success for future generations. At this time, we have significant concerns regarding the future of Spokane County 4-H. With the recent retirement of the Extension agent, we see the program facing serious challenges—not only financially, but also in the level of support available to the youth who rely on 4-H to build skills, confidence, and positive life pathways. Our goal is to work collaboratively with you to help strengthen and sustain the 4-H Youth Development Program in Spokane County. For those who may not be familiar with the program, 4-H has a long and impactful history. The 4-H Youth Development Program has existed for more than 120 years, beginning in the early 1900s with rural youth clubs in the United States. One of the earliest clubs was founded in 1902 by A.B. Graham in Ohio, focusing on practical agricultural and life skills. Over time, these efforts grew into a nationwide organization built around the four core values of Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. Key milestones include: - 1902: A.B. Graham established the first “Boys and Girls Agricultural Experiment Club” in Ohio. - Early 1900s: Similar clubs emerged nationwide, teaching agriculture and home economics to bring new ideas to farming families. - 1914: The Smith-Lever Act established the Cooperative Extension Service, formally incorporating 4-H into the USDA. - 1927: The official 4-H Pledge was adopted at the first National 4-H Camp. - 1950s and beyond: 4-H expanded into urban communities and broadened its focus to include leadership, citizenship, science, technology, and life skills. Today, 4-H remains the largest youth development organization in the United States, serving millions of young people nationwide. We respectfully request the opportunity to meet with you to share our concerns and discuss potential solutions. Please let us know some dates and times that would work for you to meet with our group. Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to the opportunity to work together for the benefit of Spokane County youth. Sincerely, Gina Mosey Broker, RRC, SRS RE/MAX Of Spokane 509-953-3410 Cell Washington REALTOR® NE Regional Rep. Washington REALTOR® State Director Past-President Spokane REALTOR® Past President Spokane-Eastern WA Women's Council of REALTOR® "Successful people are always looking for opportunities to help others, Unsuccessful people are always asking "What is in it for me?" For organizers: Meeting options Org help | Privacy and security