Contributed

Stanly County 4-H has received a $3,500 Venture Grant from United Way of Stanly County.

These funds will be used to support Stanly County 4-H’s pilot program Youth Leadership Stanly. Beginning in August, Stanly County 4-H will begin to recruit junior and senior high school students for this 10-month program.

Throughout the duration of the project, youth will have the opportunity to work closely with government officials, understand the workings of local government, complete an entrepreneurship project, participate in community service projects and discover the many aspects of Stanly County.

“I think it is important that we provide ample opportunities in leadership and citizenship for our youth,” 4-H agent Kacie Hatley said. “The kids who complete this program will be our leaders of tomorrow. This is more than just an investment in our youth — it is an investment in our community.”

Stanly County 4-H is partnering with the Stanly County Chamber of Commerce and United Way to bring this new endeavor to life. The Rotary Club also awarded 4-H with a $500 grant for Youth Leadership Stanly.

Stanly County Chamber of Commerce has implemented this program in the past.

“We are excited about our new youth leadership program where our teens can learn more about our community and important leadership skills,” Stanly County Cooperative Extension Director Lori Ivey said. “We are thankful for our funding partner, United Way of Stanly County. Without the Venture Grant this program would not be possible.”

United Way Executive Director Salem Taylor said the grants “help new ideas take shape and become new programs.”

“A youth leadership opportunity would be tremendously beneficial for Stanly County,” she added. “We need to encourage and inspire our next generation to be passionate about their community and hopefully live and work here.”

Stanly County 4-H plans to release application materials in mid-June. It continues to seek partnerships and volunteers for this program.

For more information, contact Hatley at 704-983-3987 or kacie_hatley@ncsu.edu.

— N.C. Cooperative Extension