2008 Story County - Shirley Pilgrim

Shirley Pilgrim has been involved and supportive of the 4-H Extension program her entire life. Her mother was on the Jasper County Extension Council and a 4-H leader. Shirley, originally an active member of the Modern Maids 4-H Club in Jasper County, was a 4-H leader for over 40 years and worked at the Story County Extension office as the 4-H Program Assistant from 1972-1992. She loved working with 4-H’ers, other youth, and volunteer leaders. She always said, “it was the most fulfilling career anyone could have.” “Teaching life skills, such as leadership, communication, citizenship, and project goals gave me such a great satisfaction” states Pilgrim.

While in Extension, Shirley coordinated county and state Citizenship-Washington Focus trips where 4-H’ers to visit and tour Washington, D.C. and learn about governance.

Shirley and her husband, Dick, along with their three children believe strongly in the 4-H program. Their children credit much of their success to the life skills they gained as members of 4-H. 

Shirley continues to be a strong and valued 4-H supporter, serving on various committees, giving home improvement workshops and helping at both the county and state fairs. For the past five years Shirley has assisted with the Extension program “Common Cents for Kids”, a money management program for seventh grade students, Youth & Shelter Services youth, and inmates of the Story County jail. Pilgrim says one of her favorite volunteer programs at the present time is the Story County Extension Historical Committee, where they bring the past history of the 4-H program up to date.