The 4-H program is well known, but some may not realize what it entails. As the time for Ray County Fair approaches, University of Missouri (MU) Extension Field Specialist Emily Bersieker, who works with 4-H development in Ray and Lafayette counties, shares details and benefits of 4-H. “Things have changed since I was in 4-H but a lot of the basic skills are still there. Using my experience to help them is great,” she added. “With that being said, sometimes you don’t need that knowledge to help students. I had a volunteer who watched YouTube videos on how to crochet in order to teach, it is all about the passion to give back.” 4‑H began more than 100 years ago and has become the nation’s largest youth development organization. The 4‑H idea is simple: help young people and their families gain the skills needed to be proactive forces in their communities and develop ideas for a more innovative economy, according to 4-h.org. Late 1800s: Making connections In the late 1800s,…