03/11/2019- Six months in to the job, the new UW-Extension 4-H Agent for Marinette County says he’s working to show people the organization is “more than just cows and cookies.” Ben Hoppe spoke to the County’s Development Committee Tuesday about current projects and how 4-H is developing to become more relevant and impactful. Hoppe says one of those initiatives is taking part in the Microsoft Digital Ambassadors program, which seeks to identify communities with gaps in internet access and explores openings where new digital skill sets can be brought in.
Hoppe would also like to see a 4-H club established in the county seat. He says currently, Marinette residents interested in participating in 4-H have to travel outside the city to do so, and that’s potentially keeping some youth from getting involved.
Hoppe reports there are currently 12 4-H clubs in Marinette County with about 200 youth members and 40 adult volunteers.