John Brodersen helps youth thrive through shooting sports program

John Brodersen helps youth thrive through shooting sports program

John Brodersen is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 5.

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners. 

John Brodersen is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 5. John volunteers with the Cedar County 4-H program and was nominated by Megan Hanefeldt, Nebraska Extension Educator in Knox and Cedar counties. 

"John is one of those volunteers who offers to help and wants only the best for all the 4-H members," wrote Hanefedlt. 

John is a certified archery instructor. Three years ago, he established the local archery program with 30 members! John also serves as the Cedar County sheep and swine assistant superintendent. During fair time, he spends countless hours at the fairgrounds, helping wherever needed.

"The way that John takes his time to educate and inform each participant makes him an outstanding leader. We are very grateful for all the time and effort John puts in to the 4-H program!" wrote Hanefeldt.

Tell us about yourself.

I live on a farm east of Hartington with my wife Tammie and children Kate, Grace, and Ethan. Agronomist for Helena Agri in Osmond, NE. In my spare time, I raise sheep and hunt with family and friends.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Getting to help the kids discover the same love for archery and the outdoors that I do. I can’t describe the pride I feel when it clicks for a kid, and they are just as excited to be there as I am.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

Every kid’s first arrow in the bullseye. The flood of pride that they feel and you get to see on their face is amazing.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

I feel we provide something for the kids that isn’t basketball, football, or volleyball. It’s a sport that everyone can excel at with enough time, no matter how tall, strong, or fast they are. I think just giving those young men and women a place where they can achieve personal growth is huge in their development.