Decades of dedication

CONCORD — Yvonne Hansen has been described as a giver, a cheerleader and a gem.

So it was no surprise to anyone that knows the Laurel woman that she was recently recognized for her contributions to Dixon County 4-H.

“She encourages the kids and just keeps them on track. She congratulates them almost like a mom or grandma figure. Her club members are her kids. She just is always so present,” said Monica Ebmeier, office manager for the Dixon County 4-H Extension.

Hansen was recently recognized for being a Dixon County 4-H leader for 30 years. She currently leads the Dad’s Helpers club which is 24 members strong.

She got started as most leaders do: Her children were involved in 4-H and she stepped in to help. But as her kids grow and phase out of the program, she remains steadfast.

“4-H is more than just parents and kids, it’s community,” Ebmeier said. “We need community support to keep it going - more than just the fair board, more than business leaders, more than the Extension to keep it going. It needs everybody. It’s not just a one-person show.”

Dixon County 4-H is successful because of passionate people like Hansen who see the value in 4-H, Ebmeier said.

“Being in 4-H so long, she’s a great person to have in your corner,” she said.

“Her experience shines through in so many ways.”

Hansen’s passion stems from being involved in 4-H herself as a child, entering her baking projects in the fair and also participating in dramatic skits.

Nowadays, 4-H has expanded and changed to include many unique opportunities from photography to carpentry to even babysitting - going beyond baking and livestock.

“It’s not just for farm kids anymore,” Hansen said.

Along with being a club leader, Hansen serves as secretary of the 4-H Council - rarely missing a meeting - and as a superintendent at the Dixon County Fair. Being a superintendent involves working within certain divisions for project judging, making sure judges have what they need and 4-Hers are ready to be judged so that the process runs smoothly.

It’s the experience of watching 4-Hers blossom - mature from year to year, learn new things, meet new friends and just have a good time - that makes Hansen return as leader year after year even after three decades.

“I don’t want the county fairs to go by the wayside,” she said. “It’s a valuable part of kids growing up.”