A lifetime of 4-H:Montgomery Honored for 70 Years of Service

ZANESVILLE, OH – A local legend in the 4-H community is being celebrated for a lifetime of dedication. At 93 years old, Dorothy Montgomery has spent more than seven decades helping young people learn and grow through 4-H.

Dorothy’s decades of service were recently recognized at the Ohio 4-H Volunteer Recognition Luncheon during the Ohio 4-H Conference in Columbus. She first joined 4-H when she was just 10 years old, starting with sewing projects and quickly falling in love with the program. Now, 70 years later, she’s still giving back as a Junior Leadership Advisor, inspiring generations of kids.

“You have no idea the friends that you make. And you get to watch these young people and how much they achieve. It’s just beautiful. Then, most of them have families that get involved with 4-H too,” Montgomery said.

Over the years, Dorothy has watched 4-H evolve, but one thing remains the same- the impact it has on the youth. She says one of the things she loves most about 4-H is how the older generations continue to support the younger ones. The support is especially visible at the county fair, where kids work hard all year to raise and show their animals.

“It just does my heart good. When the livestock comes in the ring, we have a community that you wouldn’t believe the support that they give to the new generation. Because they’ve been there.” Montgomery said. “They give from their hearts. They’ve been there, so they know what it does to that young person.”

Dorothy encourages anyone, young or old, to get involved in 4-H and experience the lifelong friendships and benefits it has to offer.