As the son of a Purdue University County Extension Agent and a former member of 4-H, I have more than a passing interest in the $81,000 defunding of the Michigan State University Extension and the 4-H coordinator after Dickinson County Board Chair Dan Harrington called 4-H “a woke, crazy organization” and the Extension the rich stealing from the poor taxpayer of the county. That is rich, as Pro Publica reports Harrington got more than $340,000 in PPP loans forgiven on Nov. 3, 2020, for his company.

The 4-H Pledge — “I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service, and my health to better living, for my club, my community, my country and my world” — was and is the core of 4-H values. In 1914, when the Smith-Lever Act established the Cooperative Extension Service, it brought 4-H into national organization. Over the years, 4-H has helped youth to succeed. As Jill Bramble of the National 4-H Council puts it:

— 4-Hers are 40% more likely than other youth to pursue a college degree;

— 4-H ers are two times more likely to obtain vocational or technical training or serve in the military;

— 4-Hers feel more confident reaching life goals such as owning a home, being debt-free or starting a business.

Don’t take her word for it. President Woodrow Wilson said, “In America we have only one title to nobility and that is achievement. You 4-Hers have won that title.” Presidents from Coolidge to Clinton have been honorary chairs of the National 4-H Council. Jacqueline Kennedy had a calf as a 4-H project while growing up, and Pat Nixon had a 4-H pig project. She won a red ribbon. Michigan Governor John Engler was a 4-H member, as well as war hero Bob Dole. In 1971 Richard Nixon said, “Your own work in 4-H has shown what mountains that commitment can move. I urge you to redouble it, to share it, to maintain it throughout your lives.” President Eisenhower said, “The practical education gained through 4-H Club projects and the character-building activities of the clubs help all of us to assure the nation of useful, dedicated, self-reliant citizens.”

This was true then, in 1953, and it is true now. When the county board meets Monday, it should restore funding for 4-H and for our kids.