Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz attended the Canadian 4-H Council’s annual general meeting recently and announced funding of over $1-million on behalf of Heritage Minister James Moore.
Ritz was presented with a certificate recognizing Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada as a founding member of the Canadian 4-H Council.
"To keep Canadian agriculture ahead of the pack, we need to make sure that a bright future awaits tomorrow’s farmers," said Ritz. "This investment will help 4-H continue their excellent work in developing the leaders of tomorrow, from farm leaders to those across all sectors."
This money from Canadian Heritage’s Exchanges Canada program will go to two projects over three years. The youth exchanges project and the National 4-H Citizenship Seminar project will help youth connect, experience the diversity of Canada’s communities, languages and cultures, and get involved in the future.
"The 4-H Youth Exchanges Canada enables youth to become acquainted with other Canadians, to make lasting friendships, and acquire life skills such as responsible citizenship, leadership, and engagement," said Moore. "By supporting young people to become active and engaged citizens, the government of Canada is building a strong nation for our future."
The funding is in addition to the $3-million spending delivered under Growing Forward announced last year. The money was in support of the 4-H Council’s national program to help Canadian youth succeed in their future careers.
"We are extremely pleased to see the continuing investment in the 4-H program from the government of Canada," said Judy Shaw, president of the Canadian 4-H Council. "The Canadian 4-H Council has a long-standing partnership with the government of Canada, and this investment goes a long way to ensure that 4-H members have access to new and exciting opportunities across this great country."
To learn more, visit www.4-H-Canada.ca.
