LABELLE -- Along with the return to school comes the start-up of 4-H projects. Kids in 4-H programs build life skills through hands-on projects in areas like science, health, agriculture and, civic engagement. These programs have been proven to help participants grow confidence, independence, resilience and compassion.

While there are many 4-H opportunities for LaBelle’s youth, one of the most popular programs is LaBelle 4-H Small Animal Club. Learning how to care for and show poultry, guinea pigs, or rabbits is a little easier financially and space-wise than some of the larger livestock projects, but the lessons learned are no less important.

“There are so many positives to participating in showing small animals for 4-H. One of the greatest, is that it allows 4-H’ers the opportunity to gain confidence in themselves by caring for something that is 100% dependent on them,” said Adrienne Rafferty, whose family has been involved in 4-H for as long as she can remember. “The other major value I see, can be said in one word, 'Family.' When it is done right, there is no better activity that promotes family time and the opportunity for a family to work side by side on a common goal.”

Adult mentors, who have usually been involved in 4-H as kids themselves, work hard to provide a positive environment where kids get to learn by doing.

If you have a child who is between 5 to 18 years old, that might be interested in learning more about and maybe showing a small animal (poultry, rabbit, guinea pig), you are invited to the LaBelle 4H Small Animal Club’s first meeting of the season. The meeting will be held on Sept. 2, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. in the LaBelle Extension Office located at 1085 Pratt Blvd.

You can find more information on the LaBelle 4-H Small Animal Club Facebook page: LaBelle-4H-Small-Animal-Club