Posted on August 22, 2022 at 11:47 AM by Cade Cameron
The 2022 Hall of Fame Inductee from Linn County takes the phrase 'Finding Youth Spark' to a level of excellence. Trudy Waybill is an alumna of the Linn County Wapsi Willoettes 4-H Club. After graduation, she volunteered to help chaperone many trips and lock-in events bringing her then-boyfriend, now husband, along to help chaperone an overnight lock-in at the YMCA.
Trudy could be found helping Lynn Dunn and Steve Martin with setting up sound equipment for the fairgrounds. In 2012, she chose to return to the Wapsi Willowers 4-H Club as a volunteer 4-H club leader. She helped plan and start the club's annual camping trip.
As a 4-H club leader Trudy works to have every youth shine and be included. Trudy has a true gift for recognizing the youth’s spark and helping other youth find their spark. Trudy has helped Wapsi Willoers club grow and now their yearly activities include multiple sewing and service opportunities, camp out, a mother's tea event, and a father’s cook-out. After her own children aged out of 4-H in 2017, Trudy extended her impact as a 4-H club leader by stepping into the role of Youth Council Advisor.
As a Youth Council Adviser, she strives to make sure that youth have fun with 4-H and feel empowered to make decisions that positively impact the county 4-H program. Trudy leads efforts in the Youth Council Food Booth and partners with youth members to teach consumer management skills, customer service, teamwork, and decision-making skills. Trudy has worked with Youth Council Members to grow the food stand menu each year.
When Youth Council Members were asked how they would describe her they said she is a good example, hardworking, organized, funny, selfless, thoughtful, and awesome. Trudy continues to lead Wapsi Willoers and Youth Council and make the best better!
