COLUMBIA – The Missouri 4-H Foundation presented The State Bank of Missouri’s Richmond branch with the 2022 Naomi Crouch 4-H Volunteer Leadership Award in recognition of more than 30 years of service and support to 4-H.

“We are honored to recognize The State Bank for their outstanding efforts on behalf of Ray County 4-H,” Missouri 4-H Foundation Director Rachel Augustine said.

Recipients of the Naomi Crouch 4-H Volunteer Leadership Award may select a 4-H club or county program to receive a $250 award in their honor. The State Bank chose the Clever Clovers 4-H Club.

The award came in celebration of National Volunteer Week, held April 17-23.

The following question-answer program is from the University of Missouri Extension…

Q: How did The State Bank first become involved with 4-H?

A: Jill Rodgers of The State Bank answered, “Vickie McGinnis, our former bank president, had been involved with 4-H for many years. During the past 30 years, The State Bank in Richmond has supported the youth of Ray County by purchasing multiple animals at the livestock auction and hams at the community ham breakfast each year. In addition to being a devoted fair supporter, in 2010 The State Bank began providing exhibitor shirts free of charge for each 4-H and FFA member participating in the county fair. This is roughly 250 shirts each year. Vickie McGinnis has served as an auction clerk at both the livestock and ham auctions for many years. We strive to continue supporting our local 4-H.”

Q: Why do you think 4-H is important for young people?

A: “We believe that 4-H teaches young people life skills and responsibility. It gives them an opportunity to be involved with their community and develop lifelong relationships.”

Q: What is the most rewarding part of being a 4-H volunteer?

A: “Seeing youth show their accomplishments and what they have learned throughout the year.”

Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to give back to 4-H?

A: “We would encourage them to become involved and attend some 4-H events to see firsthand the impact of the support that is given.”

The award is presented annually to volunteers and organizations for supporting MU Extension’s 4-H youth development program. The award is named in honor of Naomi Crouch, a native of Plattsburg, who served as a 4-H volunteer and Missouri 4-H Foundation trustee for more than 20 years.