Stephanis Jones gives Kiwanis 4H Fair Preview

Stephanie Jones from the Hancock County 4-H Office spoke to Kiwanis about what 4-H is doing this summer. 4-H is a youth organization led by Sarah Burke, educator, along with her staff. Since 1995 the growth of 4-H in the county has increased from 592 members to the 1,389 youth enrolled in the program this year.


4-H projects have expanded from more than just livestock and foods to many other subjects of interest to youth. One program, Jr. Leaders, supports philanthropic projects in the county and last year provided a total of 11,373 hours of community service.

New this year along with the usual summer camps is an Entrepreneurship Investigation Camp for 6th–8th graders sponsored by a grant from the Erlewein Charitable Community Fund. They will meet with area business, visit local small businesses and hear speakers on marketing, banking, economic development and legal issues. Campers will create a business plan and learn how to market their idea. They have the possibility of earning a $50 cash starter for their business.

New at the Fair are Sponsorship Days similar to the State fair and there will be a tent on the main thoroughfare of the fairground advertising the sponsoring business of the day.

Also new are events such as Donkey Races and Donkey Basketball and they promise to be lots of fun for both participant and spectator.

Junior Master Gardeners will have a garden on display in the 4-H Bowl. The Indianapolis Colts sponsored the garden and the food will be donated to Hancock Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry.

On July 16, “Elvince”, an Elvis impersonator, will offer a free concert in the 4-H Bowl. All of the favorite booths will again be at the Fair. The Fair runs July 9-16 with something for everyone