Posted on August 22, 2024 at 5:00 PM by Emily Saveraid
In nearly three decades of service to Mahaska County 4-H, Deb Overbergen has touched the lives of hundreds of young people. It is no secret that strong volunteers are the backbone of 4-H, and a leader like Deb, with more than twenty-five years of experience under her belt, is not only invaluable but truly irreplaceable.
“No one is more deserving,” M&M Peppy Pals co-leader Sara Williams said of Overbergen. Deb truly embodies the 4-H vision of helping youth thrive. Through her tireless dedication, hundreds of Mahaska County youth have found creative passions, grown into the best versions of themselves, and made the best better.
Beyond being a supportive and present leader to her club members, Deb brings creativity and passion to each club meeting and event. She is credited with an inspiring ability to create activities for youth of all ages and interests. Her club offers numerous opportunities outside the livestock realm, making 4-H more accessible to young people who don’t live on a farm.
Deb involves her 4-H members in many community service activities. They plan, make, and freeze meals for those in need; make cookie dough for hospice homes; and plant flowers; among many others. Each year, Deb has 20-40 platters of Christmas cookies delivered to local elders at home.
Without a word limit, entire novels could be filled with Deb’s accomplishments. With a word limit, Mahaska County will leave you with this: the world is a better place with volunteers like Deb Overbergen.
