Metcalfe County 4 H Volunteers Honored

– Part II –

Submitted by Amy Branstetter

Metcalfe County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development

 

Metcalfe County 4‑H Volunteers continue to demonstrate exceptional dedication to serving youth across the county. This year, their commitment was honored at the area, state, and national levels, highlighting the tremendous impact they make in their community and beyond.

More than 1,500 volunteers and professionals attended the 2026 Kentucky Volunteer Forum, held February 26–28 at the Hyatt Regency and Central Bank Convention Center in Lexington. Among them were over 43 Teen and Adult Metcalfe County 4‑H Volunteers, with twenty-nine individuals earning awards across thirteen categories, one 4‑H Young Entrepreneur, and two accreditations: a remarkable achievement for our county.

Conrad Feltner Adult Award – Tonya Caffee

Tonya Caffee has been a lifelong supporter of Metcalfe County 4‑H, beginning as a youth participant and continuing as a parent, volunteer, and leader. For more than 20 years, she has served in numerous leadership roles, including Treasurer, President, and Vice President of the Metcalfe County 4‑H Council, as well as a county ham volunteer and organizer of workshops and fundraisers. Her dedication has supported programs in livestock, forestry, arts, communications, crafts, and health, benefiting hundreds of youth. Beyond the county, Tonya serves on the Mammoth Cave Area 4‑H Foundation and represents her region on the Kentucky State Extension Council, advocating rural counties and youth leadership opportunities. Her greatest reward is watching shy youth grow into confident leaders who later return as adult volunteers. Her mentorship and advocacy have strengthened 4‑H locally and statewide.

The Kentucky Volunteer Forum is a premier educational and developmental conference designed for 4‑H and Extension volunteers from all program areas. The event features: 220 workshops across twenty-five content tracks, Professional development sessions, Seminars on Wheels Networking opportunities, trade show, and three major volunteer recognition ceremonies.

Volunteers work toward accreditation in areas such as Agriculture, Camping, Cloverbuds, Communications & Expressive Arts, Family & Consumer Sciences, Health, Leadership, Natural Resources, and Science, Engineering & Technology. The forum also recognizes volunteers, community partners, and ten‑year 4‑H members for their service and contributions to Kentucky youth.

Partners in Progress Award – Stevie Compton

Stevie Compton’s generosity and year-round support make him a deserving recipient of the Partners in Progress Award. His financial contributions have significantly expanded the Metcalfe County 4‑H Camp program, increasing the number of youths, volunteers, and opportunities available. He has helped make camp more affordable for families and has devoted time and effort to developing innovative programs and projects. Stevie believes deeply in investing in the youth of Metcalfe County, helping ensure that 4‑H Camp is a fun, educational, and positive experience for all participants.

 

Leadership Development Award – Nichole Franklin

Nichole Franklin has demonstrated outstanding leadership in Metcalfe County 4‑H through the creation and guidance of the Metcalfe County 4‑H Ranger Club. A dedicated ten‑year 4‑H member and homeschool mother of seven, she recognized the need for more youth leadership and hands‑on learning opportunities. Under her direction, the club quickly grew to over forty-five members and developed multiple “Sparks,” including Cooking, Sewing, Baking, Photography, and Cloverbuds. Monthly meetings include officer‑led business sessions, Spark reports, and educational projects, giving youth structured opportunities to practice leadership. The club has significantly improved members’ public speaking, confidence, teamwork, and responsibility. Nichole’s mentorship has strengthened volunteer engagement and expanded 4‑H’s presence in the community. Her leadership has created a sustainable, youth-led, adult-supported model that supports long‑term 4‑H growth.

Together Everyone Achieves More Award – Metcalfe County Fair Board

The Metcalfe County Fair has become a highlight of the year for local 4‑H youth, offering ten contests and events that showcase talents in livestock, cooking, baking, arts, crafts, and more. With over 375 Floral Hall entries, including one hundred Cloverbud projects, the fair continues to grow annually. Ten years ago, the fair was at risk of ending, but dedicated 4‑H volunteers, parents, and community leaders formed a new Fair Board that revitalized the event. Volunteers now devote more than 30 hours each during fair week, managing entries, judging, premiums, concessions, and groundskeeping. Their leadership has expanded opportunities, secured sponsorships, and added a carnival to increase community participation. The fair not only celebrates youth achievement but also strengthens community pride and introduces new families to 4‑H.

Lifetime Achievement Award – Don Glass

For more than 33 years, Don Glass has been a vital part of Metcalfe County 4‑H. A former 4‑H member himself, he began volunteering as a parent and became a beloved mentor to youth, teens, and adults. At West Kentucky 4‑H Camp, Don has taught fishing, outdoor cooking, and other hands‑on classes that inspire campers to return year after year. His tradition of preparing a special meal for leaders reflects his appreciation and team spirit. Beyond camp, Don has supported Forestry Field Day, CPC Field Day, Livestock Teams, the North American International Livestock Exposition, and the Farm Machinery Show. He has provided transportation, secured donations, and assisted families to ensure all youth can participate. His compassion and dedication have strengthened the 4‑H program and left a lasting impact on Metcalfe County.

Walter Sexton Adult Leadership Award- Woody Bennett

West 7 & West 8 Mammoth Cave 4‑H Area Banquet Honors Christopher “Woody” Bennett

The West 7 and West 8 Mammoth Cave 4‑H Area Banquet at the National Corvette Museum, where Christopher “Woody” Bennett received the Walter Sexton Outstanding Adult Leadership Award for his exceptional dedication to 4‑H Camp.

For twenty‑two years, Bennett has served as an adult male counselor for Metcalfe County 4‑H Camp and continues to volunteer at the 4‑H Summit. Known as one of the region’s strongest camp promoters, he recruits youth year‑round—whether in town, at ballgames, or at the county fair.

Campers request him year after year for his outgoing personality and the way he makes every student feel valued. For nine years, he has served as Dean of Men and teaches the popular Outdoor Cooking class. His leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment have made a lasting impact on the Metcalfe County 4‑H Camping Program.

Christopher “Woody” Bennett’s service has shaped countless young lives, and his legacy continues to strengthen the spirit of 4‑H in Metcalfe County.

Metcalfe County 4-H Council and County Agent, Amy Branstetter, extends their gratitude to every volunteer whose service keeps the 4‑H spirit thriving.