4-H Canada, a cornerstone in youth leadership and agricultural education, faces a significant challenge as it grapples with major funding cuts from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). Midway through the fiscal year 2023-24, the federal government informed 4-H Canada that its funding under the federal AgriCompetitiveness Program would be much lower than requested and previously received. This sudden financial shortfall forced the organization to lay off seven staff members, a move interim CEO Hugh Maynard described as part of an “organizational reset” necessary to continue offering top-tier youth leadership programs.
Maynard expressed a mix of gratitude and concern. The statement reflects an appreciation for collaborating with the minister and departmental staff and acknowledging progress and enhancements made beyond the initial approval. It expresses gratitude for the flexibility and time to consider various options together.
However, he acknowledged that the reduced funding and other financial pressures necessitated significant organizational changes.
The funding cut and subsequent layoffs have sparked a strong reaction from the community, particularly those with personal ties to 4-H Canada.
Jake Leguee, reflecting on his 11-year involvement with 4-H, criticized the government’s decision and emphasized how the program shaped his development in areas like public speaking, record-keeping, and understanding the value of hard work and self-reliance.
“This is troubling. I spent 11 years of my life in 4-H. My experiences raising steers and heifers, public speaking, and record-keeping played a major role in who I am today. Government of Canada, you have made a serious mistake,” said Leguee.
Others in the agricultural community echoed Leguee’s sentiments. John Kowalchuk reminisced about the life lessons of responsibility and respect learned through 4-H.
“4-H gave us a chance to be better. We cleaned along the highways every spring and helped with many community projects. We learned public speaking and caring for something other than ourselves,” said Kowalchuk.
Ryan Hofford of Bowsman, MB, said, “I loved watching my kids gain confidence, respect, hard work, and commitment through 4H. My daughter was very shy but found her voice through a role at 4H Beef as a club reporter!”
Jamie Hodson hoped the program could continue despite the financial setbacks.
“I was in 4H as a kid. Unfortunately, we don’t make time now for our kids, as there are too many directions already. But I hope it can continue as it is today, and these cuts will be manageable. 4H clubs are big in our area.”
Terry Youzwa highlighted the leadership skills and inspiration provided by 4-H Canada. Paul Robertson pointed out the program’s long-term benefits for children and the support it receives from community businesses.
Jenneth Johanson said, sadly, there wasn’t much of a 4H program where she grew up. “But I remember being so jealous of my peers in college who had the 4H experience. They always put me to shame when it came to making presentations. The confidence and public speaking skills were impressive!”
Josh Umscheid of Southern Alberta said, “I was never in it, but my kids are, and it’s unbelievably good and valuable. My kids speak better and more comfortably in public than I ever have; it’s taught them how meetings are properly run, managing finances, marketing, and so many life skills overlooked in the educational system.”
Criticism extended to the perceived lack of political will to adequately fund 4-H, with Pat Kunz lamenting the minimal political clout of 4-H supporters. Yet, the program’s impact on personal and professional development was consistently praised, with individuals like Jim Pallister crediting 4-H with skills in public speaking, small business management, and networking.
The funding cut has led to public outcry, with individuals like Darrell Stonehouse and Jocelyn Wasko condemning the government’s decision and underscoring 4-H’s positive impact on youth development. This situation highlights a broader debate about the value of agricultural and leadership education for young people and the role of government support in ensuring such programs’ sustainability.
In summary, the recent funding cut to 4-H Canada by AAFC has resulted in significant organizational restructuring and layoffs, eliciting a wave of support and concern from the community. The discussion reflects broader themes of the importance of youth agricultural education, the impact of governmental funding decisions, and the collective desire to maintain the integrity and accessibility of programs like 4-H that have profoundly influenced many lives. •
— By Harry Siemens