As county fairs throughout our region played out once again this summer, we were reminded of the integral role 4-H plays in positively shaping the lives of the area’s young people who participate.

Each year we visit the animal barns and witness many local youths raising animals to show and/or sell. They have many other talents that are put on display, and we know that being able to present themselves and their skills to the public at large and to the show judges is a big deal.

It gives youths a goal to strive toward.

This is not a short-lived event, either. The work of 4-H doesn’t begin or end in summer. In fact, throughout the year — at least when we aren’t dealing with a once-in-a-century pandemic — 4-H provides young people with numerous opportunities to develop good habits, make new friends and learn the value of hard work.

In short, the county fairs pull back the curtain on what really is a microcosm of what 4-H is all about — shining the spotlight on what our young people are capable of doing.

We know many Sun-Gazette readers are alums of the 4-H program. Many have introduced their kids to it as well, regardless of career choice. One doesn’t have to look very far to find numerous examples of people in prominent community positions whose childhood and adolescence includes participation in 4-H.

The 4-H motto is “to make the best better.” We feel 4-H — at least here in north central Pennsylvania — is living up to that lofty goal.

This is an organization worth exploring for any young person. Because nothing prepares the adults of tomorrow better than getting a chance to “learn by doing.”