Washington County 4-H’ers honored with national award

WASHINGTON — Washington County 4-H’ers Charlotte Sieren and Brynn Younge were 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 Nov. 10. This is the highest honor given to Washington County 4-H youth.

“As nine-year members, these ladies have done a lot of learning and growing personally but also investing in this program,” said Amy Green, Washington County 4-H & Youth Coordinator. “They are outstanding role models and represent 4-H well in their daily lives by being organized, creative, and thoughtful. They both are members of our award-winning livestock judging team who will travel to Denver for competition after the first of the year, which shows just a bit of their dedication to project areas. We are so proud of them and know they will continue to make the best better after their 4-H membership years are complete.”

Sieren, the daughter of Katherin and Jason 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 Charlotte,” said Green. “She has been dedicated to step into committees and special projects since the minute she joined county council. She represents the program well and always with a smile.”

Younge, daughter of Chad and Shannon Younge, is a member of the Limecreek Livewires 4-H Club and 4-H County Council.

“It is near impossible to see Brynn without a smile on her face but what’s even more impressive is her constant willingness to volunteer, fill a need, or come up with a new idea,” Green said. “Brynn is well-spoken and thorough and good with kids. She has a lot to offer any group she is a part of.”

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.

In addition to a certificate of recognition, these honored 4-Hers received 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.