4-H Canada has announced the launch of a new campaign in partnership with Syngenta Canada, “Proud to Bee a 4-H’er.”
Organizers say Proud to Bee a 4-H’er is a national campaign that is both fun and meaningful, and has been developed in support of 4-H Canada’s objective of nurturing and encouraging skilled, engaged, and responsible youth leaders. 4-H also fosters an environment for young people to have fun with others, enjoy outdoor activities and make healthy choices.
Through this initiative, every 4-H member in Canada will receive seed packets containing a bee pollinator mix and be encouraged to plant and grow a pollinator-friendly garden at home or in their community. Not only will Proud to Bee a 4-H’er stimulate active outdoor activities, it will allow youth to learn about the essential role that pollinators play in creating a healthy ecosystem and a sustainable food supply.
“At least one third of the human food supply from crops and plants depends on insect pollination, most of which is done by bees. At the same time, it is widely recognized that bee health is affected by a variety of interdependent factors including biodiversity and habitat,” says Dr. Paul Hoekstra, regulatory and science stewardship manager with Syngenta Canada.
“That fact, together with our longstanding relationship with 4-H Canada, makes support for Proud to Bee a 4-H’er an excellent fit with our Operation Pollinator program.”
Operation Pollinator provides support for research and other initiatives that contribute to enhanced biodiversity and habitat in support of healthy pollinator populations.
Additionally, the campaign features a fundraising component, giving 4-H’ers the opportunity to sell Proud to Bee a 4-H’er seed packets.
“With the funds they raise, 4-H’ers will be empowered to invest in their community and support 4-H at the grassroots level,” said 4-H Canada CEO, Shannon Benner.
“We are very fortunate that Syngenta understands the importance of investing in the development of responsible, caring, and strong young leaders.”
Proud to Bee a 4-H’er pollinator-friendly seed packets will be sold by 4-H’ers across Canada. If you are interested in supporting this initiative, contact your local 4-H club, or watch for Proud to Bee a 4-H’er fundraising events in your area.
For additional information and resources on the Proud to Bee a 4-H’er campaign, visit www.4-h-canada.ca/core/events/proud-to-bee.
To locate 4-H clubs near you, go to www.4-h-canada.ca/core/en/provincial-sites.
