Member Spotlights

Alex, Santa Clara County

Alex, El Sereno 4-H Club, Santa Clara County

He runs his own rabbitry business, trains his dog to visit senior citizens, and works with other youth to help the homeless.  Sound like a full-time job?  For Alex, a Santa Clara County 4-Her, these activities are just in a day’s work.

Alex, 15 and in his third year in 4-H, has a packed schedule.  In between chairing 4-H committees and working with his dog Xena, he also owns and operates the afore-mentioned rabbit business, Animaltopia.  The proceeds he earns from selling his rabbits fund his work with Xena.  He and Xena are currently attempting to secure a Utility Dog Excellent (UDX) rating, the highest American Kennel Club obedience title.  The dog project gained 18 members this year, a sure indicator of Alex’s accomplishments as a teen leader.

Alex also participates in his club’s poultry agri-business project, where he and other members sell chicks at a local feed store.  He advertises, applies for loans, and practices good customer service.  Alex and other project members educate potential chick-owners about proper care and equipment for their new baby birds.

Alex says, “4-H has really impacted my life as a teen and a citizen.  All of the memories and skills that I’ve gained will stick with me throughout my lifetime.  Skills such as leadership, community service and effective communication with others, I would have learned no other place besides 4-H.”

Author: Emily Lane, State 4-H Office Student Assistant, erlane@ucdavis.edu