Marilyn first got involved with 4-H when her daughter joined Cloverbuds in 1992. That involvement quickly grew to becoming club co-leader of the Kell Cowpunchers 4-H Club, one of the oldest 4-H clubs in Marion County. In 2002, the Marion County Director asked Marilyn if she had any interest in going beyond the title of volunteer and working with the 4-H program county-wide. Marilyn graciously accepted the offer, and became the 4-H Community Worker for Marion County. In this position, Marilyn loved watching young 4-H members learn decision making, leadership, and public- speaking skills. Marilyn had great success in her 4-H Community Worker role with youth being involved at state and national level events. She also started “Kid’s Day at the Fair” which has 4-H members serving in key leadership roles throughout the event and which has joined several community organizations to support the event with an annual attendance of over 1200 people. Marilyn retired from University of Illinois Extension in 2016, but her love for 4-H has not dwindled. Marion County 4-H thanks Marilyn for her dedication to the program throughout the years!