Posted on August 19, 2019 at 2:39 PM by Global Reach
Over the decades, Cheryl Zobel played an integral part in the Iowa 4-H program; her early years as a 4-H’er in Crawford County, later as parental support for her daughter who was a 4-H’er in Woodbury County, and over the last 27 years as a leader of the Good Luck Clovers 4-H club.
Throughout these years, Cheryl has touched many young people’s lives. She encouraged them to not be afraid to think outside the box, dream big, and always take it a step farther. She has mentored and nurtured many a shy individual, giving them the confidence to express themselves and allow that inner leader to come forth.
She has inspired her members with challenges giving them a topic or idea and letting them make it their own. She has supported them through all phases of their community projects including a flip-flop drive for children in Africa, baking cookies for US troops, fulfilling items from the Humane Society's wish list, and purchasing items and putting together personal care bags for the homeless at the Gospel Mission.
Cheryl was recognized by the Sioux City Journal in 2017 as an outstanding volunteer. In that article it is quoted, “There's no denying the passion that Cheryl Zobel has for
4-H." Cheryl states, “They (the 4-H’ers) just make me feel so good," she said of the Good Luck Clovers as tears welled up in her eyes. "Honestly," she continued, "I could have a down day and then I work with them on a project and they provide me with a sense of hope."
Whether it is fair time or working on record keeping, she is going around to her club member’s homes to review their projects and documentation, giving suggestions and encouragement. She tries to ensure the members have all the tools they need for their success. Cheryl is committed to her club members as if they were her own children. She celebrates their victories, gives them encouragement when they are frustrated, and shares their disappointments. She is always available to them.
Cheryl has also touched many lives outside the club as an achievement show judge and member of the Woodbury County Recognition Team. She has read countless record keeping applications and interviewed scores of candidates for awards. She also provided input for evaluating record keeping. As a part of this group, she has met and influenced many other 4-H members in the county.
Cheryl has been married to Robert Zobel for 45 years. They has two daughters Jennie Zobel and Valori Zobel and a grandson Conor Zobel-Stevens. Cheryl worked as the food service director for the hot lunch program at Holy Cross School – Blessed Sacrament Campus in Sioux City for over 30 years.
Woodbury County 4-H would like to thank Cheryl Zobel for her dedication and years of service to the 4-H program.
