By Sheila Phibbs
The Haldimand Press
HALDIMAND—The arrival of spring brings with it a sense of new beginnings. With the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, 2022 feels like a new beginning of sorts for Haldimand 4-H and the volunteers look forward to working with members in the months ahead.
Past President of the Haldimand 4-H Association (H4HA), Stacy Barnes, explains, “When the pandemic started in 2020, it was shortly after we had our sign up day and, as an association, we were faced with the difficult decision of whether we would even be able to provide any type of programming to our members.”
A limited number of clubs proceeded in 2020 and 2021 – some in person and some online. In person clubs met outdoors following public health guidelines to ensure the safety of all present. Online clubs were effective in engaging with members, though the reliability of rural internet proved challenging at times. Volunteers also had to consider the regulations regarding the use of community halls when planning meetings or events.
Despite the challenges, Barnes says, “Our volunteers who made these clubs possible for our members during these times got creative in a very ‘Learn to Do by Doing’ way.”
While activities were limited, planning never stopped as H4HA continued to meet monthly via Zoom.
New Association President Marie Stoneman says, “Haldimand 4-H is looking forward to delivering in-person programs for 2022 as pandemic restrictions are being lifted. We are sure many members are excited to see old friends and welcome new members to participate this year.”
At present, six clubs are being offered including Breadventure, Celebrations, Beef, Dairy, Miniature Horse, and Rabbit. Additional clubs may be offered later in the year and 4-H Ontario provides virtual clubs as well.
Stoneman states, “We will continue to adapt our programming as 4-H Ontario Covid policies are revised. We will continue to follow public health and host venue requirements in order to ensure the safety of participants and volunteers.”
She adds, “Volunteers continue to work to provide clubs and activities for members to enjoy and we hope that parents will also take an active part in their children’s clubs and activities. New volunteers are also welcome.”
The 4-H program is open to youth between the ages of 9 and 21 (as of January 1) and registration is available online at
4-hontario.ca/association/haldimand-4-h-association.
