Washington County 4-H’ers Taylor Bartholomew and Zoey Dennler were awarded the national I Dare You Leadership Award in recognition of personal integrity, balanced living and potential for leadership at the 4-H Awards Celebration November 5. This is the highest honor given to Washington County 4-H youth.

The I Dare You Leadership Award is presented each year by the American Youth Foundation (AYF) in cooperation with principals, counselors, county 4-H agents, church groups, and other organizations across the country. The award was first offered in 1941 by the late William H. Danforth, founder of the Ralston Purina Company in St. Louis, who challenged young people to achieve their highest potential and to influence others through lives of service. The award takes its name from the book, “I Dare You!,” written by Danforth, in which he commends the balanced life of mental, physical, social and spiritual development as the backbone of leadership.

“As nine-year members, these ladies have done a lot of learning and growing personally but also investing in this program. They are outstanding role models and represent 4-H well in their daily lives,” said Amy Green, Washington County 4-H & Youth Coordinator. “We are so proud of them and know they will continue to make the best better after their 4-H membership years are complete.”

Bartholomew, the daughter of Scott and Michelle Bartholomew, is a member of the Franklin Cubs 4-H Club and 4-H County Council. “It is hard to know where to start when listing good things about Taylor. You might recognize her as the 2023 Washington County Fair Queen where she was on every inch of the fairgrounds 1001 times where she represented the program well and always with a caring smile,” said Green.

Dennler, daughter of Darren and Karen Dennler, is a member of the Horse and Pony 4-H Club. “It is near impossible to see Zoey without a smile on her face but what’s even more impressive is her constant willingness to volunteer, fill a need, come up with a new idea, or welcome someone to the group,” said Green.

In addition to a certificate of recognition, these honored 4-Hers received a copy of Danforth’s inspirational book, “I Dare You!” This award is sponsored in Washington County 4-H by Moore’s Towing. To learn more about Washington County 4-H or how to support youth leadership awards and events, contact Amy at Washington County Extension, 319-653-4811. Follow “Washington County 4-H – Iowa” for more photos on the 4-H Awards Celebration.