Posted on August 22, 2024 at 5:00 PM by Emily Saveraid
The 4-H Pledge ends with, “for my club, my community, my country, and my world.” These words are a very fitting start for the nomination of Gretchen Vande Poppe for the honor of being inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame. Gretchen’s contribution to 4-H may have started as a mother and grandmother of 4-H members, but it certainly did not end there. One of the best parts of the 4-H experience is that 4-H is a family affair. But Gretchen’s involvement didn’t stop at family.
Gretchen is best known for her generous gift of sharing her talent as a photographer. She has led several photography workshops, volunteered as an assistant to many photography judges, and helped countless young 4-H club members learn and improve the basics of photography. She also has assisted in reviewing local 4-H scholarships. In these roles, Gretchen is an encourager, champion, cheerleader, teacher, and coach. Within her community she shares her photography skills with hundreds of youth, not only in her community but far beyond, by sharing her photos of local and area sporting events on social media.
Her patriotism for our country is evident in her volunteer role as a photographer on numerous Midwest Honor Flights. These flights are offered, cost-free, to local veterans. Midwest Honor Flight is a non-profit taking WWII, Korea, and Vietnam Veterans to Washington, D.C. for a day of honor.
The world is a better place because of people like Gretchen Vande Poppe. Sioux County is grateful for her dedication to 4-H and her impact on their community.
