In February, 12 of Effingham’s own, grades 7-12, traveled to Rock Eagle in Eatonton to compete in 4-H Project Achievement at the district level. These bright hardworking young people each prepared a portfolio (formally known as a record book) of all of their activities in the 2007 calendar year.  

The document is divided up into five sections: project work, project helping and sharing, community service, leadership, other 4-H and community related activities. The portfolio document presents much like a resume and helps the 4-H’er develop future workforce skills.

Additionally, each 4-H’er prepared and presented an 8-10 minute presentation complete with visual aids and props, or a performance for those who were competing in performing arts.  

Two of Effingham’s senior level competitors, Ben Snooks (General Recreation Project) and Matthew Rahn (Safety Project) of Effingham County High School, won a trip to Atlanta for State Congress, the state level project achievement competition.

Junior level competitors, Rachel Cooper (home school) and Natalie Starling (South Effingham Middle) each placed first in their respective project areas of pizza and health, and John Whitten (South Effingham Middle) placed second in the sports project.

Effingham County 4-H also received an Award of Excellence for the third most improved in the Southeast District.    

Submitted by: Jan M. Hall
County Extension Agent, 4-H and Youth Development
University of Georgia, Effingham County