Lehigh County 4-H introduced a new set of awards this year to recognize individuals and clubs who embody the values of Head, Heart, Hands and Health.

The Head Award was presented to Lenhartsville resident Carrie Olmstead, Coop Club leader, nominated by two members for being responsible, creative, energetic and for teaching strong leadership and organizational skills.

Olmstead consistently provides thoughtful guidance that helps her members grow both personally and within their project areas.

The Heart Award goes to New Tripoli resident Nancy Laudenslager for her longtime support of the Livestock Club as a banquet sponsor and donor of champion banners and ribbons for the Livestock Round-Up at the Allentown Fair. Laudenslager’s kindness and encouragement have made a lasting difference to countless exhibitors over the years.

The Hands Award was presented to Germansville resident Stephanie Fink for her years of service as communications director and sponsor book editor for the Livestock Club and for her support of the Teen Council.

Fink is always willing to step in and help whenever needed, setting an example of service for younger members.

The Health Award was given to the Equine Club for prioritizing safety through first aid training, fire and barn safety lessons and for using their training during a medical emergency at the Regional Horse Show.

Their focus on preparedness has strengthened the confidence and responsibility of every member.

Lehigh County 4-H also recognizes the 13th Spirit of 4-H Award.

This year’s recipient is Laurys Station resident Brenda Emanuel, leader of the Farm to Table Club, honored for her patience, flexibility and dedication to providing meaningful learning experiences for her members.

Emanuel’s leadership has inspired her club to explore new skills and take pride in their accomplishments.

Milestone volunteer service awards were also presented:

First Year: Jonas Geiger, of Schnecksville, Stacey Neal, of New Tripoli, Tiffany Lakatosh, of Palmerton.

Second Year: Kendall Berger, of Kutztown, Jason Missmer, of Orefield, Emily Mittl, of Kempton.

Third Year: Beverly Smith and Marvin Smith, of New Tripol, Katie Wells, Jane Baker and Kerry Rabold, all of Allentown, Kenneth Faustman, of Macungie.

Fourth Year: Celeste Ball, of Gilbertsville, Karen Selig, of Germansville, Carrie Olmstead, of Lenhartsville, Melissa Keberlein, of Northampton.

Fifth Year: Nicole Trovinger, of Quakertown.

Tenth Year: Lisa Semmel, of Schnecksville, for her service as 4-H Camp Nurse.

Twenty Year: Deb Geiger, of Schnecksville and Amy Kerr, of Slatington for decades of dedicated service to 4-H.

Lehigh County 4-H extends sincere appreciation to all volunteers who make our programs possible.

If your child is interested in joining, contact Kelly in the 4-H office at 610-391-9840 or kmb26@psu.edu.

You can register your child for 4-H by visiting https://4h.zsuite.org/ and choosing Lehigh as the county.