Do you know what 4-H is? 4-H is a positive youth development program for ages 5-18, where youth learn by doing and grow through hands-on, life skills experiences. Okeechobee County is proud to have 24 active clubs with over 600 members who participate in monthly club meetings, choose a project or multiple projects to complete, and give back through community service-learning projects.

Recently, the County Council demonstrated what service truly means. They chose to honor a special group of local veterans who eat breakfast every Wednesday morning at a hometown restaurant. To show appreciation for their sacrifices, the youth baked cookies and sweet treats, packaged them with care, and personally delivered them to the veterans. Each member introduced themselves, shared a smile, and said a heartfelt “thank you.”

The veterans were deeply touched by this gesture, and the exchange of gratitude created a memorable experience for everyone involved. It was more than cookies; it was connection, respect, and appreciation. The smiles in the conversation, pictures, and handshakes are the very heart of 4-H: learning by doing and making a positive impact in our community.

Thank you to our veterans for your service and sacrifice. Because of you, we enjoy the freedoms we have today. And thank you to our 4-H youth for living the motto: “To make the best better.”