STILLWATER, Okla. – Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development members will be focusing on the fourth H of the organization’s name – head, heart, hands and health – as they get outside for exercise and fresh air while raising money for a worthy cause.
The 2021 Oklahoma 4-H Hike for Change will take place April 24 on the Bison Pasture Loop Trail in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Murray County, benefitting the Children’s Hospital Foundation in Oklahoma City. The activity is part of the State 4-H Leadership Council’s statewide service project, Change for Change, said Cathleen Taylor, state 4-H specialist for leadership and civic engagement.
“By partnering with the Oklahoma Children’s Hospital Foundation for several years, we’ve raised just over $90,000 through Change for Change efforts. It’s always exciting each year at State 4-H Roundup when we present Foundation representatives with a check for all the funds we’ve raised over the past year,” Taylor said.
The 4-H motto, “To Make the Best Better,” is embodied by such projects, benefitting others while bolstering personal development of club members. Programs and activities are geared toward life skills and learning ways to be involved and engaged.
“This event was canceled last year due to the pandemic, so we’re all very excited to get out on the walking trail and raise money this year,” Taylor said.
The hike is open to currently enrolled 4-H’ers ages 8 to 18. Club members and families who want to participate must register by April 9. Registration is $15 per person with a $45 maximum cost per family, and it includes lunch and a T-shirt. A portion of registration fees will go to the Change for Change service project. Taylor said COVID-19 guidelines will be in place, including social distancing, mask requirements and grouping.
Hunter Haxton, president of the state 4-H leadership council, said he’s excited to participate in person.
“I’m happy we’re able to have Hike for Change this year. I’m glad 4-H’ers will finally have an event where we can all come together again and make new memories,” said the McClain County 4-H’er. “This is a great service project and I’m proud to be part of it. Service events such as Hike for Change are a great way to have fun and raise money and awareness for a great cause. It’s a way to make the best better.”
Participants will meet at 9 a.m. at the Murray County Oklahoma State University Extension office, 3490 Highway 7 West, in Sulphur, Oklahoma.
Individual 4-H’ers and families who are unable to make the trip to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area are invited to participate in the “hike from home” option. Taylor said registration is still required for this option and participants will receive the T-shirt mailed to their home. “For those participating from home, we ask that you complete a three-mile hike or walk and email a short video clip or photos of your experience,” she said.
For additional information, contact Taylor via email or call 405-744-8888.
Oklahoma 4-H is the youth development program of OSU Extension, helping youth reach their fullest potential.
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