“Join the 4-H Club Revolution: Discover How 90% of Members Transform Their Lives—What Are You Missing?”

VELVA – In a small community in North Dakota, the Guys & Gals 4-H Club is making a significant impact on the nutrition choices of its young members. This club has been recognized as a *Healthy 4-H Club* for six consecutive years and is now entering its seventh year of participation in a statewide program aimed at promoting health and wellness among youth.

At a recent meeting at the Oak Valley Lutheran Church, 13-year-old Brea Schiele shared how her involvement in the club has shifted her eating habits. "I’m less likely to reach for ice cream or other sweet snacks after school," Schiele said. Her transformation began when the club started holding food demonstrations and introducing healthier options, such as smoothies, during their meetings.

The North Dakota State University Extension Service reported that 33 4-H clubs, representing 771 members from 17 counties, were recognized for incorporating nutrition, fitness, and health-focused activities into their regular meetings for the 2024-2025 period. To receive this recognition, clubs must integrate at least one relevant activity into six or more meetings. Each participant is rewarded with a certificate and a prize; this year, it was a pop-it frisbee.

The goals of the program are clear: encourage children and teens to learn about nutrition and health, practice what they learn, and teach others through community service. “I noticed other clubs getting recognized for participation at county awards banquets,” said Nylenne Schiele, co-leader of the Guys & Gals Club. “So, I inquired about the program, and soon our club was incorporating healthy choices into its meetings regularly.”

In addition to food demonstrations, the club offers engaging activities like line dancing. Twelve-year-old Colter Buchmeier, a fan of archery, found the dance lessons enjoyable. "I might do it again if I had the chance," he said. His experience reflects a broader trend among club members; after learning about healthy eating, he noted that he now consumes more fruits and vegetables, while his younger siblings are also making better choices.

Lisa Marschner, age 10, echoed similar sentiments, stating she eats less now that she is more conscious of her food choices. "I also stay active, playing basketball and softball. Line dancing has piqued my interest," she added. The club has engaged members in various activities, from swimming and bowling to educational tours of local establishments, such as grain elevators and meat companies, where they learned about meat preservation.

Another aspect of the program is the community service component. "This club has always been big on community service," Schiele explained. They've contributed to local food pantries and participated in clean-up efforts in parks and along highways. During meetings, members even share their favorite healthy snacks as a roll call response, fostering a culture of healthy eating.

Recently, the club conducted a blind taste test featuring various fruits and vegetables. "The fruits were very, very interesting. The vegetables were OK, too," remarked 12-year-old Robert Thex after sampling the selections. This experiential learning approach demonstrates the program's philosophy: exposing youth to diverse, healthy foods can help them realize that nutritious meals can also be tasty.

Nylenne Schiele believes that these experiences may lead to lasting lifestyle changes. “Maybe it’ll become more of a lifestyle change and a habit,” she said. The program has been well-received among club members, who enjoy activities that allow them to move and engage in healthy eating. “They’re always game for those projects, and when we put a healthy spin on it, it excites them,” she added.

As communities across the nation seek to address rising rates of childhood obesity and related health issues, initiatives like the Guys & Gals 4-H Club play a vital role in educating youth about the benefits of healthy living. By fostering an environment that encourages nutritional awareness and active lifestyles, these young members are not only benefiting personally but also setting a foundation for healthier choices in the future.