This year, over 185 Benton County 4-H volunteers, gave an incredible 7,400 hours of service.
“That’s equivalent to almost four full-time employees working year-round to create opportunities for our youth.” said Ann Olson, Benton County 4-H Extension Educator.
Her remarks came at the 66th Annual Benton County 4-H Adult Volunteer Leader’s Banquet, held last Sunday at Jack & Jim’s in Duelm.
The event marked the end of the 4-H year and included an appreciation dinner and awards program for their 4-H adult volunteers and leaders. Over 100 adult volunteers, leaders, and special guests attended and enjoyed a delicious dinner. The theme for the evening was “Lighting the Way - the volunteers guiding, mentoring and inspire the youth.”
Some of the special guests included Benton County Commissioner Scott Johnson, Commissioner Pam Benoit, U of MN Extension, Regional Director, Lori Vicich, Associate Dean & MN 4-H State Director Jennifer Skuza, Benton County Extension Committee members Cheryl Scapanski and Angie Arnold.
After dinner University of Minnesota Associate Dean and MN 4-H State Director Jennifer Skuza, took a moment to say a few words. She had written a poem, specifically scribed for the group of Benton County 4-H volunteers.
Next to the podium was Juanita Beachamp, 4-H Adult Volunteer, who shared, “Lead by Light, Serve with Purpose.”
Recognition pins signifying the numbers of years in volunteering/leadership roles, were presented by Olson and Benton County Extension Support Staff, Megan Gerads. First-year recipients included: Nicole Ackerman, Nicholas J Dahler, Sarah J Dahler, Kyle Hackett, Eden Keegan, Jake Keegan, Marizza Lenz, Clint Mielke, Jen Pekarek, Brady Roberts, and Sarah Tasa. Not in attendance: Callie Czech, Brooke Goertz, Kaylee Jurek (Pyka); Kayla Kasella, Anthony Lyon, and Emily Schreindl.
Five Years recipients: Teresa Ferkinhoff, and Ann Barringer.
10-year recipients: Tasha Ackerman, Angie Arnold, Josh Kirchenbauer, Marcy Reding, and Tristan Reding. Not in attendance: Mitch Ackerman, Brent Betker, Kelly Nelson, and Shannon Nelson.
20-year recipient: Bev Mendel.
25-year recipients: Tracy Hunt, (Not in attendance) Natalie Schmitt.
40-year recipient: Karen & Larry Sakry.
The “4-H Pioneer Award” was presented to John and Barb Bemboom.
The “Leader Achievement Award” was presented to Cindy Vannurden.
The “Friend of 4-H Award” was presented to Marck Koch.
The “Outstanding Service Award” was presented to Michael Schlough.
The “M & M Award – Mentorship & Motivation Award” was presented to Brady Roberts.
Additional awards given in 2025 were the following:
The “Leader Achievement Award” was presented to Kayla Kasella.
The “Honorary 4-H Member” was presented to Dan Zieglar.
As the night was concluding, Olson shared the following.
“Exciting news — 2026 will feature a Patriot theme as America nears its 250th birthday,” she said. “And in 2027, Benton County 4-H turns 100 years old! We’re already planning a big Centennial Celebration and want you to be part of it. Let’s make it unforgettable!”
