Showing a calf, sewing a skirt, crafting a bookcase and making a speech are just a few of the many projects completed by local 4-H members each year.

For 100 years, 4-H programs in rural communities across Canada have helped young people between eight and 21 build confidence, learn skills in agriculture, home making, public speaking and leadership.

To mark this year’s centennial, current and former 4-H members from across Canada will gather in Roland, Man. — the organization’s birthplace — on May 31.

Starbuck 4-H Club leader Val Jowett said she and her two sons, who are 4-H members, plan to attend the event and she’s encouraging other club members to join them.

As well, Starbuck club members are marking the centennial by constructing a butterfly garden in a local park.

"This is a creative project for six members, but all members will eventually participate," she said.

The Headingley Club’s 20 members are taking part in a national drive to collect donations for food banks, with their club’s contributions going to Winnipeg Harvest.

"So far the Headingley club has collected over 100 pounds of non-perishables," said leader Estelle Bahuaud.

"Our club decided to collect 4-H memories, stories and photos from family members, neighbors and friends for our 100th anniversary scrapbook, so we are encouraging everyone in the surrounding communities around to send us their information," she said. The scrapbook will be displayed at the club’s year-end achievement.

4-H Canada has also set up a virtual history project live online to showcase 4-H throughout the years. Digital photos, videos, articles and documents can be uploaded at www.4-h-canada.ca/core/en/e-history.

Headingley club president Amy Unger started a list of 100 tasks relating to the 4 H’s of 4-H: head, heart, health and hand. The members have 100 days to complete them and have a picture taken of them doing their tasks. The photos will be put into the club’s celebration scrapbook.  

The Dacotah Equestrian Club’s 12 members are giving 100 volunteer hours to various organizations, said leader Deb Martens.

"For instance, the members will provide meals at the upcoming West Broadway Youth Outreach workshop and other horsemanship clinics at Hi-Point Horsemanship, and several of our members actively volunteer on their own," she said. "We will keep track of our volunteer hours to meet our goal of 100."

The La Salle Club includes multi-purpose and livestock projects, with 33 members participating this year. Leader Julie Ann Purcha said they are posting road signs recognizing the 4-H centennial.