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Ohio 4-H Youth Development

Ohio State University Extension

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Lorain County Collects Toys for Tots

Amy Smith and Jacki Baca collect and count toys at the Lorain County Extension office.

Lorain County 4-H clubs gave back to their community in December by participating in the inaugural Toys for Tots 4-H Club Challenge. Eight clubs came together to collect a total of 360 items for youth in their county.

Amy Smith, a 4-H advisor, initiated this countywide effort and worked alongside Jacki Baca, extension educator for 4-H in Lorain County, to collect the donations from each club. Items included sports equipment, blankets, board games, dolls, stuffed animals, and more.

Three clubs were recognized for collecting the most items, with the first-place club being celebrated with their choice of a pizza or ice cream party:

•            1st place: Hoof N Hide 4-H Club, with 127 items

•            2nd place: Lo. Co. Shooting Sports Club, with 71 items

•            3rd place: Amherst Critters & Such, with 62 items

Smith and Baca said they were overwhelmed by the generosity of Lorain County 4-H’ers and their families and were grateful to everyone who played their part in spreading joy. Baca said, “I’m especially thankful to Amy for launching this project and providing such a meaningful service opportunity for all of our 4-H clubs.”