Pajama drive yields result for The CALL in Hempstead & Nevada Counties

4-H members in Hempstead County with some of their collection. UADA photo

LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas 4-H members learn early on the value of service to their communities. During the holidays, their efforts shine especially bright.

4-H members in Hempstead County hosted a pajama drive, collecting 54 pairs of gender-neutral pajamas in various sizes for The Call for Hempstead and Nevada counties, part of a statewide nonprofit organization that assists foster children and their families.

“The Teen Leaders chose this project as part of Arkansas 4-H’s yearlong service project initiative, ‘Foster the Love,’” Hempstead County 4-H agent Betty Wingfield said.

Arkansas 4-H, the youth leadership development program of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, engages young people ages 5-19 in leadership, life skills and community service. Its programs are grounded in the belief that youth learn best by doing.

“Our 4-H clubs are committed to service in their communities year-round,” said Debbie Nistler, head of 4-H and Youth Development for the Division of Agriculture. “The holidays give us extra opportunities to serve our communities.”

“It’s heartening to see our 4-H members developing leadership skills through community service, especially during the holidays,” said John D. Anderson, senior associate vice president for the Division of Agriculture and director of the Cooperative Extension Service. “Our county extension agents do an exceptional job of knowing about needs in their communities and helping our youth engage in service. It’s wonderful for those being served, and it’s equally beneficial for our young people to feel connected and know they can make a difference.”

Arkansas 4-H is the youth development program of the Cooperative Extension Service, part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. It offers programs for youth ages 5-19 in every county in Arkansas. To learn about Arkansas 4-H, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit Arkansas 4-H online at http://uaex.uada.edu/4h-youth/.