I am sure Grandpa Joe never realized what he started when he agreed to put up a piece of property for the local 4-H club's softball field in the mid 1940's. With several dozen children in the neighborhood, including his own; he probably thought that a softball field would keep them out of mischief. What came from that simple gesture has evolved into a multi-generational roster of 4-H members, leaders, and volunteers. Of Grandpa Joe's lineal descendants, six of nine children, 23 of 28 grandchildren, (plus one who serves as an adult volunteer) and eighteen great grandchildren were or are enrolled in the 4-H organization. In addition, eleven spouses were enrolled or served as volunteers.
With over 50 different project areas exhibited by family members, there was always someone within the extended family that would help you-an uncle that knew about electricity or an older cousin with tips on how to perfect your food demonstration. Coming from a large family also provides you with a built in audience, and cheering crowd. There was always a smiling face in the audience during your first 4-H talk or a comforting shoulder when you weren't selected for state fair. Even before you were of "legal age,” you went to club meetings, attended Share-the-Fun, participated in “June is Dairy Month” activities and worked at the county fair.
One special family member that embodied all the 4-H tenets was Joseph "Butch" Geiger Jr. Throughout his tenure as a 30 year leader he was father, uncle, great uncle and grandfather to 41 Illinois 4-H members. Under his direction, an annual club roster of 50 plus members learned public speaking, leadership and the importance of volunteerism. Butch had a subtle way of encouraging members to use their head, heart and hands for the betterment of self, family and community. His gentle nature calmed fears, helped others self-realize their strengths and guided many into their careers. His service to the organization inspired other family members to be leaders and volunteers throughout Illinois.
Family members are able to reflect on how the skills learned in 4-H have benefitted them; from developing a hobby, choosing a profession, serving as a community leader, or even in the choice of a spouse. As diverse as each of these accounts are, there is some commonalities that would run through each of our stories. 4-H was fun. Life-long friendships were forged. Subject matter competencies that were learned are still used daily. Interpersonal skills learned were not for our own personal benefit, but so we could give back to others and our communities. For the past seven decades, family members have served as youth leaders, charitable/civic and governmental board members and in church leadership positions.
Maybe Grandpa Joe did know what he was doing. He set an example for his descendants. He saw a need and helped make it a reality. As we have been taught; it's not what you get out of 4-H; it's about what you share with others and give back.