WSU Skagit County Extension is pleased to announce the hiring of Dorothy Elsner as the 4-H Youth Coordinator. Dorothy will be serving all of the 4-H youth needs in Skagit County including the Skagit County Fair.
Dorothy has a long history of working with children and seeing them thrive in the 4-H youth environment at WSU Skagit County Extension. She has been an avid 4-H leader with the Valley Green Acres club and is a strong believer in the 4-H mission, “I can see the difference 4-H makes with youth, watching kids grow and learn is very rewarding.”
Dorothy’s 4-H journey began as a youth growing up on a cattle ranch in rural Arizona. She has fond memories of Extension staff and 4-H leaders nurturing her abilities and setting high standards. “They put up with a lot from me as a loud, silly, and enthusiastic teen,” said Dorothy who has two grown daughters. “It’s my turn and, my pleasure, to follow in their footsteps.”
In addition to leading a horse club Dorothy has also been active in the 4-H Leaders’ Council and has served in many leadership positions in Skagit County 4-H. She and her husband Bob, were named Leaders of the Year for Skagit County in 2007.
Dorothy knows first-hand how 4-H impacts youth self-esteem and life skills. “They become so self-confident, and there are so many learning opportunities,” said Dorothy. “Public speaking is huge. I’ve seen so many shy boys and girls develop into determined, poised young adults.”
Being a 4-H coordinator also its own benefits by keeping a pulse on youth culture. Hearing the latest music, discovering new technology, and finding out what’s relevant in young lives is all part of the reward.
Dorothy will begin her first day at the WSU Skagit County Extension on June 2. Please stop by the office anytime between the hours of 8:30am-4:30pm at 11768 Westar Lane, Suite A, Burlington WA to visit Dorothy.