4-H’er Gavin Sieren honored with “I Dare You” Leadership Award

Washington County 4-H member Gavin Sieren was awarded the national I Dare You Leadership Award in recognition of personal integrity, balanced living and potential for leadership at the 4-H Awards Celebration November 2. This is the highest honor given to Washington County 4-H youth.

The I Dare You Leadership Award is presented each year by the American Youth Foundation (AYF) in cooperation with principals, counselors, county 4-H agents, church groups, and other organizations across the country. The award was first offered in 1941 by the late William H. Danforth, founder of the Ralston Purina Company in St. Louis, who challenged young people to achieve their highest potential and to influence others through lives of service. The award takes its name from the book, I Dare You!, written by Danforth, in which he commends the balanced life of mental, physical, social and spiritual development as the backbone of leadership.

“As nine-year member, Gavin has done a lot of learning and growing personally through 4-H but also investing in this program. He is an outstanding role model and represent 4-H well in his daily lives by being organized, creative, and thoughtful. This past year he represented Washington County 4-H in Washington, D.C. even at the national Ignite by 4-H Conference. I appreciate Gavin’s willingness to go above and beyond and step out of his comfort zone,” said Amy Green, Washington County 4-H & Youth Coordinator. “We are so proud of him and know he will continue to make the best better after his 4-H membership years are complete.”

Sieren, the son of AJ and Denise Sieren, is a member of the Dutch Creek Flyers 4-H Club and 4-H County Council. “It is hard to know where to start when listing good things about Gavin. He stepped into leadership early as a 4-H jr camp counselor and has been an awesome mentor for those younger members. They are and we are lucky to have him,” said Green.

In addition to a certificate of recognition, these honored 4-Hers receive a copy of Danforth’s inspirational book, I Dare You! This award is sponsored in Washington County 4-H by Moore’s Towing. To learn more about Washington County 4-H or how to support youth leadership awards and events, contact Amy at Washington County Extension, 319-653-4811. Follow “Washington County 4-H — Iowa” for more photos on the 4-H Awards Celebration.