SELMA — 4-H’ers across our state, nation and Dallas County will celebrate one of our nation’s largest youth development movements this week, Oct. 4-10 during National 4-H Week.

A movement that began more than 100 years ago (4-H begin in Alabama in 1909), with the Corn Club for Boys and the Tomato Clubs for Girls have grown into a national membership of 7 million members and more than 600,000 volunteers.

The 2009 National 4-H Week theme will be “Meet the Future.”

Here in Dallas County more than 150 youth conduct and lead their club meeting monthly.

Middle school youth are involved in a Junior Leadership program where they are learning skills, such as conflict resolution and manners

Working in cooperation with the Youth Leadership program of Selma-Dallas County, senior level 4-Hers are exploring careers, learning how to manage their finances, how to work in diverse group and giving back to their communities through service learning and community service projects.

During the 2008-2009 school year the Dallas county program had a membership of more than 750 youth participating in programs, such as public speaking, photography, wood science, food and nutrition, leadership and summer camp. This year 4-H is expanding and seeking volunteer leaders to reach a goal of 1,000 members.

To become involved as a member or a 4-H volunteer leader in Dallas County today or for more information, contact Callie N. Nelson, county extension coordinator or John Hoomes at the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Dallas County Office at 875-3200.

The Dallas County 4-H Club program is open to all youth ages 9-19, with regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, or disability.