Many 4-H youth from across Mississippi will have opportunities to learn valuable life skills this summer, thanks to more than $825,000 donated by Tractor Supply Co. customers.
Between April 26 and May 7, Golden Triangle-area Tractor Supply stores took part in a Paper Clover fundraiser to help send thousands of 4-H youth to county-level development programs, camps and leadership conferences. Awarded as scholarships, the money will enable individual 4-H members to learn everything from science and technology to fishing and horseback riding.
“The value of our partnership with National 4-H Council is never more clear than during the Paper Clover Campaign,” said Christi Korzekwa, senior vice president of marketing at Tractor Supply Co. “Our dedicated team members and loyal customers continue to show outstanding support for 4-H programs that teach children life skills in science, healthy living and citizenship empowering them to thrive today and tomorrow.”
This marks the eighth consecutive year of the semi-annual Paper Clover Campaign. The partnership between Tractor Supply and National 4-H Council has generated more than $11 million in funding over its history, due in large part to the commitment of 4-H groups. This year, individual 4-H clubs greeted customers at stores and held their own promotions, including greenhouse sales, 4-H alumni events and social media challenges.
In Columbus, the Lowndes County 4-H Dixie Riders Horse Club was on-site at the store, hosting an individual fundraiser one Saturday during the campaign period.
“We just appreciate them supporting 4-H and understanding what 4-H does in our Lowndes County community,” said 4-H Extension agent Sharon Patrick. “And not just here, but on the state and national level, too.”
“So many Tractor Supply customers have a true passion for 4-H and want to help our country’s next generation of leaders gain the skills they need to succeed,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4-H Council. “By emphasizing individual development and group dynamics through hands-on learning and team challenges, 4-H youth programs can do just that.”
The Paper Clover Campaign will return to Mississippi Tractor Supply Co. stores this fall, from Oct. 4-15. Customers can participate by purchasing paper clovers for $1 or more at checkout.
For more information on the program, visit tractorsupply.com/4h.
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