Grange Invites Youth To Challenge Their Limits
Breanna Cribbs of the
Orangevale Youth Grange
with squealing friend.
High resolution photo download
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA, June 20, 2007 -- Who says youth programs have to be boring? From arts to agriculture, the California State Grange is inviting kids and young adults to enjoy a variety of exciting and rewarding activities and programs.
"If a kid wants to learn how to make strawberry jam, we’ll teach them," explains California State Grange Youth Director Ed Komski. "If a kid wants to learn to play keyboard to rap music, that’s okay too. Our purpose is to excite their imaginations and challenge their limits. We’re not going to just sit around a table with coloring books."
The California State Grange is a community service organization with 185 chapters and 10,000 members across the state. The Grange’s roots go back to 1867 when the first Grange was organized to promote the common interests of farmers and ranchers. Everyone is welcome to apply for membership.
Focusing on the diverse interests of today’s kids while embracing the best traditions from its past, the Grange Junior, Youth and Youth Fair programs provide a fun and wholesome experience for boys and girls ages 5 - 20.
The California State Youth and Junior Granges differ from other traditional youth programs in that the young participants take on leadership roles. They make the decisions on the direction of the program, with guidance from experienced adult mentors.
"Our goal is to encourage the kids to become well rounded individuals with skills and experience that will help them through any challenges they may face in life," states Komski. "Working with each other in a fun and creative climate, kids will learn how to take care of themselves and others."
Drawing from a rich history of farming and ranching, Granges are often closely affiliated with 4H programs in their communities. The Youth Fair program provides the resources for members to participate in County Fairs, by entering a variety in live stock competitions and other events.
Recognizing the competition from other youth organizations, iPods and chat rooms, the California State Grange designs activities that fascinate and engage the younger generation. At the same time, the Youth and Junior Grange programs must meet the expectations of their parents.
"We would very much like to see the parents play an active role and encourage them to join our general Grange," Komski relates.
There’s an active California State Grange Youth and Junior Grange program in your community. For more information on Grange Youth and Junior Grange programs, contact Director Ed Komski at the California State Grange: (916) 454-5805 or toll free 1-866-4GRANGE.