GARDEN CITY, Idaho — As the community gathered for Friday's opening day of the Western Idaho Fair in Garden City, the 4-H animals stole the show.
The 4-H program guides five to 19 year old participants on how to care for animals properly. 4-H organizers said, It has been a cornerstone of the Western Idaho Fair for generations.
Earlier on Friday, a few 4-H’ers proudly took home first-place prizes with their livestock and pets. They smiled and proudly held up their achievements, but prizes weren't the only things they would take away from the experience.
There are also greater benefits to being a 4-H member like earning college scholarships and this is a large part of participants staying in 4-H for so long. The longer members stay active, they earn higher titles. As they progress in the program, they move up in categories to compete and win awards.
The program always hopes to attract more youth participants to develop skills and acquire a sense of responsibility. It is meant to serve as more than a hobby; rather, it is guidance toward youths’ futures.
The 4-H organization and members’ work is continuously making a lasting impact on the community through projects, volunteer work, and competition shows, 4-H is developing accountable young leaders in Boise and around the country.
4-H organizers said it is a vital part of the local Boise community.
For those who didn't see Friday's event, more competitions will happen over the weekend and next week during all the fair days.