Community Service

Community Service Lock-In

Journals are being made for Operation Military Kids

While today’s youth are often accused of being the “Me Generation,” focusing exclusively on themselves, a group of Dodge County
4-H Youths and their families made it abundantly clear that the welfare of others in the community is equally important.

Sewing pillowcases

General more than 120 people spend the evening of the community service lock-in completing project that will benefit people of all ages, both locally and about the area.  During the last community service lock-in participants made 106 pillow cases, 85 no-sew blankets, 72 therapy bags, 140 journal, 110 stencils boxes, 70 rubber stamped cards, 80 message card, and numerous pet toys.  These projects will bring comfort and cheer to youth whose parents who are deployed in the military, to those in hospitals, assisted living centers or nursing homes and via social service agencies.

Making therapy bags

The Dodge County 4-H program has held numerous community service lock-ins per year since 2008.  4-H is a program area with UW Extension and helps youth grow, learn and develop life skills.  4-H also emphasizes the importance of outreach and community involvement through programs that benefit others.  The counties 4-H clubs have always been encouraged to include community services projects as part of local club programming.  Older youth organized and planned these events.  We were fortunate to receive financial support to make these events possible. The first grant received was through the Wisconsin 4-H Foundation, other donations have come from Dodge County Law Enforcement Shop with the Cops Program, Thrivent Financial, American Legion, Operation Military Kids, JoAnn Fabrics, Dodge County 4-H Leaders’ Association and individuals support.  A variety of Dodge County organizations benefits from these endeavors. 

Making No-sew blankets for those in need

They include area nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, Clothes for Kids, Humane Society, Operation Military Kids and families in need.  For more information please feel free to contact the Dodge County Extension Office at (920) 386-3834.

Making stamped and message cards