The 4-H Family of the Year helps continue the strong tradition and history of Washington County 4-H. They have helped make our 4-H program one to be proud of. Receiving the 2023 4-H Family of the Year is the Roger and Kathy Brinning Family.

Both Roger and Kathy were Washington County 4-H members. But very unique and special about this 4-H family is they started dating at the county fair and have been married for over 50 years.

They raised four children who were all nine-year members of Washington county 4-H. Shane, Sonja, Shannon, and Shauna. Now they have supported 9 grandchildren who were or are Washington County 4-H members.

Kathy assisted with Fair Queen Contest decorations for years and enjoys helping with Extension Office projects leading up to the fair. She made almost 10 keepsake items from the old cattle barn that were auctioned off at the Winter Fair which totaled over $1000 towards the 4-H program. For many years, she brought in potted plants to display at the livestock backdrop during the fair.

Roger served on the Washington County Fair Board for years and likes to continue to stop by annually to help with various tasks and projects before the fair. He has been a long-standing assistant in the beef shows.

Both Roger and Kathy help with the beef carcass scan at the fair and enjoy sponsoring several fair trophies for 4-H members. Both their children and grandchildren have followed in their strong 4-H values and volunteering footsteps. In a variety of combination, this family has been involved in 4-H volunteer positions such as the County Council, Youth Committee, 4-H Leaders, and fair Superintendents.

What is special about this Brinning family is they really have never sat out. They never took a few years off after one graduated or one moved away. They keep coming and helping and answering the call. They are not in it just for their own kids but understand the importance of supporting the entire program. Roger and Kathy now enjoy supporting their grandchildren in 4-H.