2011 Sac County - Cathy Cook

Posted on August 19, 2011 at 12:33 PM by Global Reach

2011 Sac County Cathy (Healy) Cook was born in to a 4-H family. Her involvement in the program began at a very young age with the Happy Helpers Juniorettes and Happy Hustlers 4-H Clubs in Crawford County.

During her tenure as a 4-H’er, Cathy participated in all available project areas; and even joined the “boys” club so she could participate in the livestock exhibits. Growing up, some of her fondest memories were from the time she spent at the fair. Cathy remained involved in 4-H after high school, but took a more active role when she enrolled her children in the program in the 1990s. Cathy became a leader of the Viola Visions and Wall Lake Bandits 4-H Clubs in Sac County in 1995, and continues in that role today.

As a 4-H leader, Cathy is progressive and dedicated. She is a true advocate for youth/adult partnerships and makes every effort to empower the youth of her clubs through activities like service projects, opportunities beyond the county and fair exhibits. Cathy constantly expands the bounds of her club by working with her members to identify educational opportunities and projects that are relevant and interesting to today’s youth.

During her time as a leader, more than 150 youth have participated in her 4-H clubs. Her clubs have researched, planned and implemented more than 45 city-wide service projects, and have participated in countless other county-wide and state-wide initiatives as well. Cathy truly believes in the power of youth and makes time to ensure each one of her 4-H’ers annually participates in local community service projects, leadership opportunities and individual fair exhibits.

Beyond club projects, Cathy donates countless hours of time and resources to the Sac County 4-H Youth Council and many other community initiatives. She works with the youth of her clubs to ensure they participate in leadership opportunities they are interested in by researching and encouraging them to apply for everything from state leadership positions in 4-H to scholarships, and leadership trips.

Every youth in Sac County knows that if Cathy hears them mention being “bored”, they won’t stay that way for long! Cathy has passed on her passion for service and the 4-H program to countless youth, including her own five children, who continue to participate in the program as volunteers or members yet today. Cathy’s influence on 4-H youth is exceptional; she truly epitomizes what it means to be a leader.