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GRAND ISLAND — There are 22 adult volunteers, one 4-H member and a family of volunteers being recognized with 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Awards, a list that includes John Broderson, a member of the Cedar County Fair Board.
Broderson became a certified archery instructor and has served in that role for three years. In addition to his role as an archery instructor, Broderson serves as the Cedar County Sheep and Swine Assistant Superintendent. Each year, Broderson spends countless hours at the fairgrounds offering a helping hand wherever needed. Broderson is one of those volunteers who offers to help and wants only the best for all of the 4-H members.
Broderson has utilized his archery skills to help grow the Cedar County Archery program and ignite the spark in many youth through archery. The program began under his leadership three years ago and now has 30 members. The way that Broderson takes his time to educate and inform each participant makes him an outstanding leader.
Other award recipients include the Vrbka, Ott and King families from Polk County, receiving the Multi-Generation Family of Volunteers Award.
Lindsay Mendenhall, 4-H member in Chase County, is receiving the Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award. This award recognizes a 4-H member, ages 14-18, who has made a meaningful impact on their local 4-H community.
There are 11 individuals receiving Emerging Adult Volunteer Awards. These awards recognize volunteers who have served less than three years in their local 4-H community. One individual is recognized for each Nebraska Extension Engagement Zone. Recipients include: Jackie Simonson, Sheridan County; Chelsea Sallach, Wheeler County; Chase Prentice, Lincoln County; Steve Dirgo, Gosper County; John Broderson, Cedar County; Keith Umstead, Nance County; Joelle Wacker, Polk County; Michael Bracht, Burt County; Allison Walbrecht, Lancaster County; Kristina Woods, Fillmore County; and Micah Scholl, Pawnee County.
Eleven more individuals are receiving Outstanding Adult Volunteer Awards. These awards recognize volunteers who have served more than four years in their local 4-H community. One individual is recognized for each Nebraska Extension Engagement Zone. Recipients include: Sally Bryner, Box Butte County; Judith Rath, Thomas County; Nancy Lashley, Logan County; Arlys Cupp, Chase County; Chris Redding, Antelope County; Sue Hornickel, Valley County; Janet Stutzman, Seward County; Robert Stoddard, Washington County; Harry Muhlbach, Lancaster County; Alan and Kaye Mussman, Thayer County; and Sheryln Damme, Otoe County.
The Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Awards honor individuals who are making meaningful and lasting contributions to their local 4-H communities.
“All across the state, Nebraska 4-H volunteers do incredible work to provide opportunities for our youth,” said Jill Goedeken, 4-H Professional Development and Volunteer Extension Educator. “These volunteers generously give their time, energy and creativity to help develop the next generation of leaders, and we are thrilled to be able to recognize their contributions.”
Recipients will be celebrated during a recognition ceremony at the 2023 Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island. For more information about Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Awards, please visit 4h.unl.edu/volunteer-recognition.
