Mr. Speaker, this week is National 4-H Week. This year the organization is celebrating its 90th anniversary.
The Canadian 4-H program had its beginnings in Roland, Manitoba, and currently has approximately 33,000 members across the country.
This historical roots of the Canadian 4-H program are solidly grounded in rural Canada. The program originated for the purpose of improving agriculture, increasing and bettering production, and enriching rural life.
Its beginnings were inspired by energetic and idealistic agricultural officials, dedicated school teachers and others committed to ensuring young rural Canadians learned the important skills required to succeed on and off the farm.
Today's programs continue to serve primarily rural communities but one does not need to live on a farm to join. Open to male and female youth between the ages of 8 and 21, 4-H focuses on developing well rounded, responsible and independent citizens. Members participate in technical skills development, club projects, as well as other fun club activities like camping, public speaking, travel, conferences and much more.
I would like to congratulate the 4-H organizations and members throughout Canada for all their work.