The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – Young people in Alleghany County and Covington are taking part in 4-H programs that provide opportunities to learn new skills, compete, serve their community and take on leadership roles.
National 4-H Week provides an opportunity to recognize the work being done through the local 4-H program and the young people and adult volunteers who make those activities possible.
During 2026, local 4-H members have participated in activities ranging from Junior 4-H Camp and school enrichment programs to state competitions and leadership events.
Local youth attended Junior 4-H Camp as both campers and teen counselors, giving older members an opportunity to take on additional responsibilities while helping younger participants. Others represented Alleghany County and Covington during 4-H Day at the Capitol in Richmond and participated in 4-H State Congress at Virginia Tech.
Local 4-H members also competed beyond the Alleghany Highlands. Members participated in the state 4-H Food Challenge and Extemporaneous Speech competitions, while others represented the area as international delegates in the Dominican Republic.
Leadership opportunities have also been available to local youth. Members have served on the State 4-H Cabinet and the Teen Leadership Council at the W.E. Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center.
The local program also provides opportunities for younger students and those who may not participate in competitions. Throughout the year, youth can take part in hands-on workshops, in-school enrichment programs, after-school clubs, STEM activities and other educational programs.
One of those opportunities is the 4-H Agriculture and Natural Resources Field Day at Mountain Gateway Community College. Fifth-grade students participate in hands-on activities designed to introduce them to agriculture, natural resources and careers connected to those fields. Community partners and volunteers help lead the activities.
The variety of local programs allows youth to explore different interests while developing skills in areas such as agriculture, STEM, public speaking, leadership, citizenship, cooking and outdoor activities.
Adult volunteers are an important part of the local 4-H program, helping organize activities and provide guidance and support to participating youth.
Anyone interested in joining 4-H or becoming an adult volunteer can contact Christine Hodges at the Alleghany Virginia Cooperative Extension Office at 540-862-0369.
