CHENANGO COUNTY – Chenango County 4-H partners with Tractor Supply Co. for its Paper Clover campaign that supports youth in preparation for work and life.

The nationwide, twice-yearly campaign is scheduled to run from November 27 through December 13 at all Tractor Supply store locations, including those in Chenango County.

The fundraising initiative takes place each spring and fall, offering customers the opportunity to contribute at checkout to support local youth development programs.

“Clovers are available for purchase at Tractor Supply stores nationwide, but for funds to be allocated to Chenango County, local donations should be made at the Norwich and Greene locations,” said Nicole Starkweather, 4-H youth development educator.

“Anyone interested in contributing can purchase a Paper Clover at checkout at either location and write their name on the clover,” Starkweather said.

She noted the clovers are then displayed in the store to show support for 4-H.

“Donations can be as simple as rounding up a purchase to the nearest dollar,” she added. “Every contribution makes a difference.”

Starkweather explained the donations made in Chenango County help create opportunities for local youth to participate in educational trips, special outings, hands-on activities and weekly programs, covering a variety of interests that include agriculture, outdoor education, STEM, cooking, arts and crafts and leadership development.

“These experiences allow youth to explore new interests, build valuable life skills, develop confidence, and connect with others in their community,” she said. “Continuing this campaign is important because it helps make these opportunities more accessible and affordable for families, while giving youth the resources they need to learn, grow, and thrive.”

Cornell Cooperative Extension Association Team Leader Whitney Kmetz said, “This past year, the clover campaign fully supported youth to attend Animal Crackers, Career Explorations Trip to Cornell, and ABC Trip to SUNY Cobleskill.”

“These statewide trips that are offered to 4-H youth, allow them to make new friends along the way and create positive experiences that can help them with their careers or later on in life,” Kmetz added.

Since 2010, Tractor Supply has partnered with the 4-H campaign to raise more than $24 million. The campaign helps youth develop technical skills and life skills that prepare them for whatever comes their way.

According to the Tractor Supply Co. website, the success of these campaigns has impacted over 80,000 students by providing them with hands-on learning experiences through projects in STEM, agriculture, healthy living and civic engagement.

Every dollar raised through the twice-yearly Paper Clover campaign directly benefits 4-H youth. Ninety percent of donations support participants in the state where the funds are raised, while the remaining 10% supports the national organization's mission and growth.

For more 4-H events or information, visit the Chenango County 4-H Youth Development Facebook page.