North Dakota 4H Celebrates Top Volunteers

By Scout Nelson

North Dakota 4-H recently held its annual Recognition Luncheon to honor families and volunteers who have made long-term contributions to the state’s 4-H program. The event, hosted at the North Dakota 4-H Camp near Washburn, celebrated Century Families, volunteer award winners, and a new inductee into the North Dakota 4-H Hall of Fame.

The luncheon highlighted the values of service, leadership, and community involvement that define the 4-H tradition.

The North Dakota 4-H Foundation and North Dakota State University Extension 4-H Youth Development Program recognised four North Dakota 4-H Century Families. A family earns this title when their combined years as 4-H members, volunteers, or leaders total 100 years or more.

This year’s honored Century Families include the Fust Family of Traill County, the Bopp Family of Sargent County, the Nelson Family of Walsh County, and the Kram Family of Cass County. Each family has contributed many years of support to 4-H youth programs.

During the event, two volunteers received Salute to Excellence awards. The Volunteer of the Year Award, given to someone with fewer than 10 years of service, was presented to Dawn Thomsen of Barnes County.

The Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer Award, given to someone with 10 or more years of service, was awarded to Alvina Ebensteiner of Ramsey County. Both recipients were recognised for their dedication to youth, leadership, and community involvement.

The program also celebrated a new member of the North Dakota 4-H Hall of Fame. Jackie Buckley was inducted for outstanding leadership and long-term commitment at the local, county, regional, and state levels. Her work reflects the values and mission of 4-H across North Dakota.

In addition, outgoing board member Mark Landa of Grand Forks County was recognised for 12 years of service to the North Dakota 4-H Foundation.

NDSU Extension leaders say these recognitions highlight the strong foundation built by volunteers and families who support youth development across the state. Their dedication continues to shape future generations of 4-H members.

For more information or to support North Dakota 4-H, families can visit ndsu.edu/4hfoundation.

Photo Credit: 4-h