- Author: Jesenia Mendoza
On top of being a project leader for dog care, rabbit and presentation skills at Liberty 4-H, Kristi also does book keeping, gives horse lessons and is a full time mom. She is a proud parent of two 4-H members. Her son was the reason why she joined Sonoma County 4-H as a leader. He wanted a rabbit, Kristi and Matt, her husband, said “If you want to own a rabbit you need to join 4-H”. She reinforced this in her children because 4-H has been a program she is fond of. She says, “4-H is not just about animals, it's about life skills really! I really wish other people knew that 4-H is much more than just animals!” She continued by emphasizing that 4-H offers a lot more to our community. “When people ask me why my children are in 4-H it is not because of the animals… it's the public speaking, record keeping, time management, organization, leadership and community services these are all things that you don't really get in school, and these are all things that just about every project in 4-H has to offer.” Kristi works hard to support all 4-H members, even if it means helping the competition, her purpose is to help children succeed and be successful in life.
You can hear the excitement in her voice when she speaks about children whom she has made a difference to. “The most rewarding thing as an adult is having a child come up to you and say thank you, you made a difference in our life. I really appreciate all you do… you inspire me…” Her selflessness has created a sense of happiness and togetherness in the 4-H community.
Kristi we sincerely appreciate your generosity and dedication towards 4-H. Thank you for everything that you do!
- Author: Jesenia Mendoza
Julie loves animals, she says she has always wanted to have animals “living in San Francisco I never had that opportunity” 4-H helped Julie fulfill her desire of having animals, she currently has a pony, chicken, guinea pigs, dog and a cat. She has also had goats and rabbits.
“4-H creates lifelong family friends, it's great to see other volunteers who have stayed volunteers even though their children have left 4-H.” She loves feeling that she “makes a difference in a child's life” she says. “I just want to be there for the children, it's in my heart.” Julie's fondest memory of 4-H is “working with her children on their projects going through both the struggles, successes and learning life lessons together.”
Julie is proud to be part of 4-H she believes it “allows the opportunity to explore different careers and improve life skills such as public speaking, financial skills, setting and evaluating goals, critical thinking. These skills help them be successful and allow them to fulfill their passion which is one of the best feelings.”
Thank you Julie for everything that you do! You are making a difference in this community, country and world.
