Dairy Cattle

Purpose

The purpose of the 4-H Dairy Endowment Fund is to provide a reliable and secure source of financial support for youth development through state and national 4-H dairy events and activities.  This fund is used to provide support for youth to attend agricultural workshops and conferences to further their knowledge and gain insight into career opportunities.  The fund was formed as an endowment, with the earned interest used to support 4-H youth participation in dairy activities.

Before the formation of the Fund in 1990, financial resources to support dairy
state dairy organizations primarily provided program youth development. Funding only supported the travel of 4-H youth to the National 4-H Dairy Judging Contest. During this time, the number of dairy farms in Washington was decreasing by 10% annually, raising concern that funding resources from farmers and agribusiness would decrease, potentially leading to the end of support for travel to National dairy youth events.

A 15-member Committee composed of WSU Extension faculty, dairy industry personnel, 4-H leaders, youth and dairy support organizations, and staff, coordinates fundraising activities and oversees all decisions regarding the Fund.

The Committee is an affiliate of the Washington State 4-H Foundation, with all funds managed through the Foundation.  The 4-H Dairy Endowment Committee is dedicated to raising funds for programs that support the development of leadership skills, educational experiences, and career opportunities for youth.