Two Lancaster County 4‑H volunteers were recognized with Nebraska 4‑H state-level awards in 2025. Lancaster County 4‑H recognized these volunteers with an informal presentation at the Lancaster County Super Fair. Nebraska 4‑H recognized all the statewide award winners at a formal ceremony at the Nebraska State Fair.
OUTSTANDING ADULT VOLUNTEER (1 of 8 individuals)
Jennifer Smith has been an exceptional volunteer in Lancaster County for two decades. She has led the Fantastic 4 4‑H Club since 2005, which has been repeatedly recognized as a Nebraska 4‑H Club of Excellence and Lancaster County Outstanding 4‑H Club. Jennifer has led the club in numerous community service projects such as doing activities with senior residents and donating items to Fresh Start Home. Jennifer said, “I truly love helping youth discover ways to give back to their communities — guiding them through and around barriers to empower them to follow their hearts and make their dreams a reality.” At the Lancaster County Super Fair, she is a superintendent for the 4‑H Table Setting Contest, Outdoor Adventures static exhibits and Dog Show. She has also taught several 4‑H workshops such as speech and first aid.
EMERGING ADULT VOLUNTEER (1 of 8 individuals)
Anna Barr stepped in as a replacement leader for the Super Shamrocks 4‑H club in 2022, and has led club members in projects such as making vegetable seed ID boards and homemade lava lamps. They recently made pet-sized fleece tie blankets that club members could donate to a humane society. At the Lancaster County Super Fair, Anna is a superintendent of the 4‑H Photography area. She says, “My favorite experience as a 4‑H volunteer is seeing club member progress over the years and improving their knowledge and communication skills. It’s also interesting to see what sparks their interest and come up with projects based on that.”