Lori Heemstra inducted into Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame

Lori Heemstra, of O'Brien County, was inducted into the 2024 Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the 4-H Exhibits Building at the Iowa State Fair, on Sunday, Aug. 18.

Ninety-three Iowa counties participated this year and selected 125 inductees for their outstanding service and dedication to 4-H. Inductees or their surviving family members were presented a certificate by Iowa 4-H Foundation President Jeff Murphy and State 4-H Program Leader Mitchell Hoyer as they were introduced on stage.

"Lori Heemstra has dedicated countless hours to the O'Brien County community over the years. Lori is always willing to help in whatever capacity is needed," said Michele Wagner, O'Brien County Extension Youth Coordinator, in a news release. "From serving as a 4-H club leader for the Center Farmers for eight years to taking pictures of 4-H members to helping with static exhibit judging and serving as coordinator for the O'Brien County Fair Bill Riley Talent Show, Lori can always be counted on to step up and help."

Counties select inductees for their exceptional work in contributing to the lives of 4-H members and the overall 4-H program. Many inductees serve as club leaders, youth mentors, fair superintendents or fair board members, county Extension council members, fair judges, financial supporters, chaperones or Extension staff members. The inductees have demonstrated dedication, encouragement, commitment and guidance to Iowa's 4-H members through the years.

"This is a great way to honor the volunteers and staff across the state of Iowa that generously give their time and talents to foster positive partnerships with our 4-H youth," said Tillie Good, Iowa 4-H staff and volunteer development manager.

The Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame was initiated in 2002 to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of 4-H.