2009 Hamilton County - Virgene Monthei

Virgene Monthei has served the Hamilton County 4-H program for nineteen years.  She began as an outstanding club leader of the Clear Lake Sailors 4-H Club, as her children became involved in various project areas, Virgene saw a need for additional learning opportunities beyond what our program was offering.   She requested permission to start project meetings in Dog Obedience, Horse and Rabbit.  Under her direction and coaching she has instilled desires to go beyond the 4-H training and seek higher aspirations in our young people’s lives.  At the present time a former 4-H’er has graduated in chiropractic medicine for animals, 3 are studying to become veterinarians  and one is operating his own kennel.  She has coached 3 Horse Quiz Bowl teams to National competitions in Denver, Colorado. Other 4-H’ers went on to compete in National horse show competitions in Texas.  We have seen our Dog Obedience project area grow from 10 participants to over 30 committed young people and families.  She has had several 4-H’ers go beyond the county Dog Obedience program and train their dogs to become therapy dogs to be used in nursing homes and in day care facilities. Some trainers and dogs are now showing in sanctioned dog shows   Virgene has definitely passed her love for animals and children on to Hamilton County 4-H’ers. 

We Thank You for all you have done for us.