Judy Rath builds community in rural cattle country

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.
Judy Rath is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 2. Judy volunteers with the Thomas County 4-H program and was nominated by Tayler Rath.
Judy has served as the Thomas County 4-H Achievers Club leader for over ten years. In a rural community, Judy grew a small gathering into a successful club by organizing weekly meetings focused on various projects, such as STEM, animal science, woodworking, and welding. Judy also established a local FIRST LEGO League robotics team, the Central Sandhills MechTechs, that has won two regional tournaments and advanced to the state championships several times.
"What began as a small gathering in rural cattle country flourished into a successful program enabling youth to grow their knowledge, learn new skills they might have otherwise never known (as the nearest equivalent opportunity would have been hours away), and inspire them to reach for the stars," wrote Tayler. "Because of the dedication of Judith and her empowering belief in the youth of the community, dozens of kids aspiring to become our future ranchers, farmers, scientists, engineers, or anything they set their minds to, were able to pursue their dreams."
Tell us about yourself.
I grew up in Omaha, NE, and moved to Thedford, NE, when my sons were ages 2 and 3. I was a Stay at Home Mom/Rancher's Wife. I homeschooled my two sons throughout their school careers. My oldest needed challenging subjects in the school atmosphere, and my youngest had several medical needs. Homeschooling was a blessing to our family. As my sons came of age, they joined the local 4-H club, where they were able to find new friends and socialize with youth their age. After the first few years, we found ourselves without a 4-H Club Leader, so I volunteered.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
When I volunteer, I rely on my knowledge and experiences and how I can share those with others. With 4-H, volunteering gave me the chance to share all that I know and provide the youth in our small community with opportunities outside of the basics of public school. In teaching and sharing various subjects such as robotics, STEM, art, and animal husbandry, just to name a few, I gave our 4-Hers the chance to find their own path. In learning various different subjects and getting a hands-on experience, we provide 4-Hers with the chance to see what they like to do, to see what things touch their heart and soul, what they can do to have that positive effect on others, not only their peers but others that they may come in contact with.
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
My favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer was seeing all of the kids come together as a group, encouraging one another, whether it be at static exhibits for fair, robotics competition, or livestock showmanship, having a positive impact on one another that they will remember for the rest of their lives.
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
To find your spark, youth must have opportunities in various subjects so that they can find their true path, their purpose, that place where their heart goes to and a smile lights up their face. We have the ability to provide those opportunities with our experience and knowledge.
Chase Prentice exemplifies positive youth development

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.
Chase Prentice is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 3. Chase volunteers with the Lincoln County 4-H program and was nominated by Caitlyn Jacobson, Nebraska Extension Educator in Lincoln, Logan, and McPherson Counties.
As a club leader and certified shooting sports instructor, Chase prioritizes positive youth development. He encourages youth to try new projects and explore different subject areas. Chase creates an environment where youth can thrive. He ensures everyone has an opportunity to participate, actively engages youth in conversations, and coaches them throughout their learning experiences. As a result, he has built strong and meaningful relationships with his club members.
"He has also built strong relationships with his club members in the short year he has been involved in Lincoln. Co. 4-H," wrote Jacobson. "His growth mindset mentality will continue to set him up to be a fantastic leader for many years."
Tell us about yourself.
I have been working as a volunteer in youth development for several years. When my wife and I volunteered to help with our local 4-H, we found out that they wanted to restart the Shooting Sports program. I volunteered to get trained as an Archey Instructor and became a part of the team that is helping to rebuild the Shooting Sports program for our area. I find it to be an exciting role because of my interests in youth development, archery, and community development. I am excited to see where the Shooting Sports program is headed for our county and for the chance to get to be a part of its development.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
I look forward to seeing club members become confident in new skills as well as the growth and development club members get in skills they already possess. I also enjoy using my training and knowledge to instruct club members to help them develop skills so that they can be confident in their own abilities.
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
The first time teaching as an Archery Instructor for 4-H. It was great to see my training pay off in instructing shooters not only the proper safety techniques and protocols but also letting them have a great time learning by doing using archery equipment in a safe and respectful manner. Seeing the joy on club members' faces as they were shooting their bows is something I strive for, not just teaching club members skills but also giving them an environment in which they could have fun learning in.
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
Being a Shooting Instructor for 4-H has given me the opportunity to instruct youth in proper shooting techniques, which has given several club members the confidence to try out a new shooting discipline that they would not have had the opportunity to before. A few of the club members who were a little hesitant to try different disciplines in our shooting sports program have quickly enjoyed developing those new skills once they tried it out.
Sally B Bryner helps youth grow through horse program

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.
Sally B Bryner is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 1. Sally volunteers with the Box Butte County 4-H program and was nominated by Melissa Mracek, Nebraska Extension Educator in Box Butte County.
Even though she has a busy work schedule, Sally supports the Box Butte 4-H program whenever possible. She often lends a hand at the Fort Robinson Horse Camp. Sally has taught at the local babysitting workshops, and she always makes sure to provide items for the local fundraiser.
Sally is most well-known, however, for leading the county horse program. She serves as the county fair horse superintendent. In this role, Sally is responsible for purchasing show awards, managing the program, preparing the exhibitor packets, and overseeing the condition of the arena. As the 4-H Horse Club leader, she holds weekly practices throughout the summer to help members learn riding basics and gain horsemanship knowledge. Sally is a certified examiner for the Nebraska 4-H Horsemanship Advancement Level program and leads county-wide horsemanship and riding workshop.
"Sally is an awesome horse instructor," said Melissa. "She understands the youth and works with them to help them achieve their goals and not only become excellent riders but also knowledgeable horse owners."
Sally encourages local members to grow their project experiences. She is a cheerleader for the Futurity program, through which youth spend four years training a young horse. She ensures these youth are celebrated at the county fair every year. Thanks to her support and guidance, several of Sally’s club members have gone on to compete in statewide rodeo competitions and horse shows.
"My husband attended her practices as a youth. When he went to college, he had the confidence and abilities to participate in the equine riding classes at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, as well as was recruited to be a member of the Equestrian team," shared Mracek. "Currently, we own horses, and I do believe that had it not been for Sally’s classes, it would have taken a lot of encouragement and training for that to happen otherwise."
Tell us about yourself.
I am a 20+ year 4-H volunteer, as I started volunteering the following year after I was no longer of 4-H age. I especially enjoy volunteering for the horse project, as that has been my passion since I was a young girl. I participated in the 4-H horse project for my full ten years in 4-H.
I also enjoy showing horses myself when I am able to find the time to do so. I have always enjoyed my time as a volunteer in Box Butte County, where I have resided most of my life, growing up in Alliance and returning after obtaining my education. I currently reside outside of Hemingford on a small "hobby" farm. I also work full-time as Nurse Practitioner at a local Rural Health Clinic in Alliance.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
Helping youth learn about their project and seeing that growth as the summer months progress.
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
One of my favorite memories as a 4-H volunteer would be watching youth not only grow in their projects but into young adults and enjoying it so much they also return as 4-H volunteers!
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
I have tried to keep youth engaged in their projects. I also try to help them learn new things about their project. I love teaching and pushing youth to set goals and try my best to help them achieve those goals.
Joelle Wacker's helps youth honor veterans through Quilts of Valor program

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.
Joelle Wacker is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 7. Joelle volunteers with the Polk County 4-H program and was nominated by Colleen Pallas, Nebraska Extension Assistant in Polk County.
Joelle has a passion for the Quilts of Valor program. In 2020, she volunteered to coordinate the Polk County 4-H Quilts of Valor program. She has spent the last three years leading workshops and helping youth create quilts that they then donate to local veterans. During her time as program coordinator, Polk County 4-H members have completed and donated thirty Quilts of Valor. She is currently helping another ten members create quilts that will be finished this spring.
"Most of the 4-Her’s attending the workshops agree that presenting their Quilt is the best part of the project," said Pallas.
While quilting can be costly, Joelle works to ensure this is not a barrier for youth. She collects donations to reduce or even eliminate costs for members and recruits volunteers to help prepare materials.
"These youth learn new sewing skills as most have never quilted before," said Pallas. "They also learn compassion and the importance of community service through the time and effort it takes just to make one quilt, which can equal ten plus hours, only to turn around and give their Quilt of Valor away to a veteran."
Tell us about yourself.
I grew up participating in Box Butte County 4-H from age 8 to 18. After my husband finished his service with the U.S. Navy, we knew we wanted to raise our kids in Nebraska and I wanted them to be part of a 4-H program. We settled in Shelby and are involved in Polk County 4-H.
I organize a Quilts of Valor workshop for Polk County 4-Hers each spring, I help with Blossomfield 4-H Club, and I am the current president of Polk County's Extension Board. Outside of 4-H, I volunteer within Shelby's American Legion Auxiliary Post 296, Sacred Heart Church in Shelby, Aquinas Catholic Schools in David City, and I lead the Stars, Stripes, and Stitches Quilts of Valor group.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
I enjoy helping 4-Hers grow and learn, especially through sewing as it stretches your mind.
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
Seeing the accomplishment on a 4-Her's face when they complete a whole quilt top at our Quilts of Valor workshop.
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
I'm hoping that in providing 4-Hers with a chance to learn more about sewing and quilting by creating a Quilt of Valor to award to a military veteran, I will help spark both their creativity and their patriotism.
Micah Scholl helps youth take pride in their swine projects

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.
Micah Scholl is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 11. Micah volunteers with the Pawnee County 4-H program and was nominated by Mary Moser, Nebraska Extension Educator in Pawnee County.
"Micah is very passionate and is very willing to share his experiences with the youth in our county, so his enthusiasm is contagious," said Moser.
Micah is passionate about showing swine and wants to help every Pawnee County 4-H member learn to show swine with competency and confidence. He started by hosting a clinic to teach youth how to select, train, feed, and show their project animals. He then volunteered at the county swine show. Micah is stepping up to serve as the county fair swine superintendent this year. He plans to offer more clinics to help exhibitors in this new role.
"The youth that he has helped definitely feel pride when they can exhibit their animal at a higher level and not only does the judge comment but members of the community notice the time and effort put into the project," said Moser. "Changes would not have been made without Micah’s help."
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Micah Scholl. I am 26 years old. I Grew up in Lincoln, Nebraska but currently reside in Pawnee City, Nebraska, where I am currently working on becoming a licensed electrician through an apprenticeship program and own and Operate Ignite Genetics. In my "free time," I enjoy going to every stock show I can and meeting new people.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
Helping others achieve stuff that they never have before or never imagined
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
Well, first, I hope the memories are not over, but right now, the one that's at the top is successfully getting somebody on the dirt at the NSF and for them to have their name recognized for their hard work in front of people.
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
By hopefully whoever I deal with, giving them confidence in whatever they do.
Sherlyn Damme keeps 4-H program alive and strong
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.
Sherlyn Damme is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 11. Sherlyn volunteers with the Otoe County 4-H program and was nominated by Cheryl Goff, Nebraska Extension Office Manager in Otoe County.
"Sherlyn is well known by most Otoe County 4-Her's, and they know they can count on her to help them grow and thrive," shared Goff. "Every county needs a Sherlyn to keep the 4-H program alive and strong."
Sherlyn started the Otoe County 4-H shooting sports program four years ago and has since seen membership more than double! She is now working with other volunteers to start shotgun and archery clubs. Sherlyn is an active 4-H Council member and attends all Ag Society meetings as the council representative. This year, she was invaluable in helping update the county fairbook and awards program. Last year, Sherlyn was instrumental in developing the Exploration Area at the Otoe County Fair. Sherlyn can be found leading an activity at the Clover Kid Camp every year. While helping her own children participate in events, Sherlyn also volunteers her time in the 4-H Exhibit Hall at the Nebraska State Fair.
"She doesn't ask for any credit but deserves so much for her continued time and effort to make our 4-H program strong and resilient," wrote Goff.
Tell us about yourself.
Married to my husband, Lynn. We have two boys, Cody - age 18, and Ryan - age 15. We live and farm in the country near Lorton, NE. I taught Physical Education, coached for 10 years, and then substitute taught for 17 years. My favorite hobbies when I have time include gardening, crafts/woodworking, and photography. I also enjoy watching my kids and their peers in all the activities they participate in.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
As a volunteer, I simply look forward to helping others and making a positive impact in 4-H. I have been blessed to work alongside other amazing volunteers and professional staff that make up the 4-H community.
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
As a shooting sports leader, I get to watch the excitement a 4-H member has when they find success, especially after struggling and being frustrated. There is something about their expressions and enthusiasm that is unforgettable. Those moments are why I do what I do.
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
I think I have helped youth find their spark by being an active listener, by being encouraging, and by helping provide new local 4-H opportunities for youth.
Chelsea Sallach inspires youth through horse program

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.
Chelsea Sallach is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 2. She volunteers with the Wheeler County 4-H program and was nominated by Jen Epp, Nebraska Extension Educator in Garfield, Loup, and Wheeler Counties.
As a member, Chelsea discovered her spark in the 4-H horse project. As an adult, she is paying it forward as a volunteer leader.
"Chelsea Sallach has been a breath of fresh air in the Wheeler County 4-H horse project," wrote Epp.
Wheeler County has strong ties with the equine industry, and community members of all ages love their horses. Despite all of this, local youth seemed reluctant to participate in the county 4-H horse shows. With equine expertise, Chelsea stepped up to lead practice sessions. She prioritized a growth mindset and skill-building to help youth develop self-confidence. The practices were not only impactful, but they also became increasingly popular. As a result, participation in last year's local 4-H horse show doubled.
"As an emerging volunteer, she has added richness for the youth and the project at the county level," wrote Epp. "We are excited to watch her take these youth to new heights in the future."
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Chelsea Sallach, and I am from Ewing, NE. I live on a ranch with my husband, Craig, and our 4 kids - Owen (10), Warren (9), Quincy (6), and Hazel (4). Growing up, I was a lifelong member of 4-H and participated in the horse project. I enjoyed showing horses and rodeoing, as well as any opportunity to learn about training horses. In college at UNL, I showed horses on the IHSA Equestrian Team and judged for the UNL Horse Judging team while earning a Bachelor of Science - Animal Science with Equine Emphasis. I recently earned my Master of Education - Special Education and enjoy teaching high school science and elementary special education.
Since college, I have become a certified 4-H horse judge in Nebraska and have continued to judge 4-H and open horse shows. When my kids started 4-H, I saw another opportunity to share my love and knowledge of horses with kids who were eager to learn. I began volunteering with the Ericson Wranglers 4-H club as a horse project leader, which has grown into the opportunity to help all youth in our county with their 4-H horse projects.
When I am not teaching, judging, or volunteering with 4-H, you will likely find me outside on the ranch! I enjoy riding and training young horses, helping my husband on the ranch, and spending time with my kids.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
I love the opportunity to see kids working hard, developing friendships, and building lifelong skills. Their dedication and persistence to learning and growing, along with the joy they share through the process, is a testament to the bright future of these young people.
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
I don't have one favorite memory - I have many, many favorites! Seeing kids find success, especially when they have worked so hard, is incredibly rewarding. Those moments when they connect with their horse, conquer a fear, or master a new skill, always bring a smile to my face.
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
I help youth find their spark through 4-H by providing them opportunities to learn and grow in an environment where mistakes are just steps to improving. I challenge them to try things out of their comfort zone and to have ownership of their own success. I share my love and knowledge of horses with the hopes that they will also find a lifelong passion while developing their skills.
Arlys Cupp helps youth find their passion through 4-H

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.
Arlys Cupp is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 4. Arlys volunteers with the Chase County 4-H program and was nominated by Debbie Kuenning, Nebraska Extension Educator in Chase and Perkins Counties.
Arlys Cupp has served as a 4-H leader for over 30 years! She leads both the Challengers 4-H Club and an afterschool Aerospace Club, helping youth build and launch rockets. Arlys is a youth-focused leader. She values the learning opportunities 4-H provides and is constantly looking for ways to increase engagement. Regardless of the project, Arlys is always ready to help. She can be found helping youth work with their market steer, overseeing the county Rocket Shoot, or advising youth on their Public Service Announcements. Arlys also works to instill pride in the community through annual community service and fair beautification projects.
"With so much experience, Arlys has plenty to teach about 4-H, but she is constantly seeking to learn and try new things in the program," wrote Kuenning. "Always looking for new experiences or opportunities to inspire the youth she works with."
Tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Chase County. I attended a country school and have loved everything agriculture all my life. I was a member of the Silver Spurs 4-H Club when I was a child. I have been an elementary teacher in Chase County for 38 years. It is my pleasure to help with our school's jr. high FFA program. I also enjoy being a part of the Champion Jr. Women's Club and doing community service.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
I have always looked forward to helping our youth find their passion, setting achievable goals, and then do their best to meet their goal.
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
I have more memories than I can count. One of those is watching first-time rocket builders launch their rockets for the first time. When they count down, hit the ignitor button, and the rocket launches, the look on their face is priceless. Many memories were also made while traveling with 45 youth on the CWF trip. 16 days on a bus with them were very special, and lots of memories were made. I was fortunate enough to get to do this twice when my own children went on the trip.
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
Spending the year looking for ideas to help kids explore projects and careers is rewarding and fun. 4-H offers so many opportunities, from baking to livestock, fishing to robotics, gardening to safety, and so much more. Who couldn't find something to be interested in?
Keith Umstead challenges youth to be their best

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.
Keith Umstead is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 6. Keith volunteers with the Nance County 4-H program and was nominated by Steve Pritchard, Nebraska Extension Educator in Boone and Nance Counties.
"As the local 4-H Educator in Boone County, I have known Keith for four years, and he portrays the true spirit of 4-H volunteerism," wrote Pritchard. "He has been very dedicated to the 4-H program in Nance County."
Keith currently serves as the Nance County 4-H Council president, serving on various committees. He has given a tremendous amount of time to see that county fair, workshops, and other 4-H events are well-organized, and he does it all with a smile. Keith is also the club leader for the local Hot Shots 4-H Club. Keith is a Level 1, Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor with multiple discipline certifications. Typically, he runs a 6-8 week program during the winter and another 6-8 week program during the summer. As a certified instructor, Keith has taught hundreds of young people the safe and responsible use of firearms, sound decision-making, self-discipline, and concentration. Keith has a passion for helping youth put forward their best effort. As a highly respected community member, he is an excellent role model for young people. He demonstrates high character and strong morals instilling these values in the young people he works with.
"He challenges the youth to be their best," said Pritchard.
Tell us about yourself.
I enjoy helping with 4-H between being on 4-H council and club leader with Nance County Hot Shots 4-H Shooting Sport Club. In my free time I enjoy the great outdoors hunting and shooting firearms/archery. But my favorite past time is just spending quality time with close family.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
I look forward to teaching youth how to be responsible and safe all while having FUN with archery and firearms.
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
I don’t have a specific favorite memory because I have multiple, and they happen at almost every practice every time a child lights up and smiles ear to ear when they realize they have accomplished a goal!!
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
By keeping every interaction fun and exciting while learning discipline and respect for themself and others.
Allison Walbrecht creates opportunities for all youth to belong

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.
Allison Walbrecht is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 9. Allison volunteers with the Lancaster County 4-H program and was nominated by Tracy Anderson, Nebraska Extension Educator in Lancaster County.
Allison Walbrecht is a Lancaster County 4-H member, a three-year 4-H leader for the Unified Showing 4-H Club, and a freshman at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Allison has a passion for giving opportunities to all and, as a result, had the idea to start the Unified Showing 4-H Club. This club allows youth with disabilities to participate in 4-H activities and learn about livestock, specifically lambs, through weekly meetings at her family’s farm. Allison pairs youth with disabilities with a teenage “buddy” who helps ensure the youths’ and animals’ safety. Together with their designated lamb, they learn how to care for their lamb, lead it in the ring, and show it
"Through the Unified Showing 4-H Club, Allison has helped youth with disabilities find their spark by providing a safe space to learn, practice, and participate," wrote Anderson.
Tell us about yourself.
I am currently a Freshman Animal Science major at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln, minoring in Engler Entrepreneurship and Nebraska Beef Industry Scholars.
What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?
Growing up as a fifth generation farmer on my family's cow calf operation I fell in love with agriculture, going to school in Lincoln I saw how this industry was not accessible to everyone. I love volunteering with 4-H because I get to feed my own passion of agriculture while watching youth fall in love with it as well.
What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?
In 2022 Unified Showing was in 3 counties, all of whom had their county fairs on the same day. My team helped over 40 participants show at 3 different county fairs in a matter of 8 hours. To watch all the hard work over the year pay off as youth who typically lack opportunities to be involved had bleachers packed with family, friends and community members all eager to cheer them on, was by far the most meaningful part.
How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?
Youth with disabilities unfortunately have limited opportunities within agriculture to be involved. Since starting this program I have seen kids come alive as they are able to connect with their animals, other youth with disabilities, and youth from the community who are eager to befriend them. When asking them what they are interested in doing when they grow up many say to continue working with animals. I have been fortunate enough to watch as they fall in love with agriculture and have myself been able to refall in love with it through their eyes.