Anita Campbell
County Reporter
The Missouri 4-H community was proud to announce the induction of Elvera Schnakenberg Zimmerschied of Benton County into the prestigious 2023 Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame at a program held on Saturday, August 12 at State Fair Community College in Sedalia, MO.
This year’s inductees represent not just the best, but a commitment to making the best even better. With unwavering dedication, remarkable contributions, and a profound legacy of volunteer leadership, these remarkable individuals have elevated the standards of excellence within the 4-H program," said Rachel Augustine, senior director of Advancement for the Missouri 4-H Foundation.
The Missouri 4-H Foundation recognizes individuals who have created a legacy of service to 4-H by honoring them with induction in the Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame," Augustine added.
“Each year, the Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame induction serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact that volunteers can have on the lives of young people, families, and communities. It is a celebration of passion, selflessness, and a relentless drive to empower the next generation of leaders” she said.
Elvera Schnakenberg Zimmerschied dedicated over 20 years of volunteer service to Benton County 4-H Youth Development programs. Zimmerschied served as club leader for the Lake Creek Lamplighters and Brandon Boosters 4-H Clubs. As the Benton County 4-H and FFA Youth Fair Board President, Zimmerschied was instrumental in working with local city officials to create a written agreement to grant 4-H perpetual priority use of the 4-H and FFA Building and Fairgrounds. This document has proven to be a valuable tool during city official staff transitions and ensuring the use of the space for future generations. For many years Zimmerschied transported 4-Hers to county council meetings, fair board meetings and local achievement days in addition to leading several 4-H projects. Zimmerschied is a shining example of 4-H volunteer leadership, which inspired her children to become high achieving 4-H members including attending National 4-H Congress and serving as State 4-H Council Presidents.
Inductees representing 33 counties and one inductee representing the state established a legacy totaling 1,061 years of service to 4-H. 4-H friends and family members attended the 17 th annual event sponsored by FCS Financial and the Missouri State Fair in partnership with the Missouri 4-H Foundation.
“We are eternally grateful to these volunteers with an incredible legacy of service and honor these exceptional individuals, we not only celebrate their individual accomplishments but also the ripple effect of their influence that extends far beyond their time of service,” said Dr. Lupita Fabregas, director of the University of Missouri Extension 4-H Center for Youth Development.
From the heart of Missouri’s vibrant cities to the quiet corners of its rural landscape, the 2023 inductees have woven together a tapestry of experiences, knowledge, and wisdom that have enriched the lives of countless 4-H members. Their stories inspire us to reach greater heights, to embrace challenges with resilience, and to pass on the torch of leadership to the generations that follow,” said Fabregas.
Missouri 4-H is an active, dynamic organization of young people who are learning, growing and preparing to be the leaders of today and tomorrow – making a real difference in their community, country, and world. 4-H is the youth development program of the University of Missouri and the nation’s Cooperative Extension System.
For more information on Missouri 4-H, visit 4h.missouri.edu.
