The widespread flooding and winter weather across our great state has been at the top of all of our minds, including those of 4-H youth, volunteers, staff, and alumni across Nebraska and the country. Thanks to all of you for what you’re doing.
There will be a long road to recovery, and many 4-H’ers and our supporters will want to contribute.
As you assist young people with considering what can be done to support recovery efforts, please share the following:
1) Money is the most useful donation. Donations for relief efforts may be given through many support relief organizations, local entities or through the Nebraska 4-H Foundation. Questions regarding donations to the Nebraska 4-H Foundation and financial support to assist these efforts can be directed toward Stuart Shepherd (sshepherd3@unl.edu).
2) Volunteer for a relief organization. Some of you are already utilizing the capacity of 4-H clubs as volunteers; if doing so, please think prudently about youth safety. Support relief organizations, such as the Red Cross, Salvation Army, or others, who are already established and assisting in the affected communities may offer opportunities for volunteering.
3) Visit http://4h.unl.edu/flood. Additional information and resources are available and will continue to be added on this page.
We will also be looking at additional ways we can support impacted 4-H’ers and their families. For example, we are looking at changes in deadlines, rules for participating in specific events, etc. that will be necessary as schools may be lasting longer, decisions by families will be in flux, etc. If you can think of specific examples that will be hardships to our families, please let me know.
Again, many thanks to all of you for your work and support. We’re Nebraska Strong!
(Source: Kathleen Lodl | klodl1@unl.edu | 402-472-9012)