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The county’s 4-H clubs are in better shape than the Homemakers, with youngsters continuing to reap the benefits of the myriad programs offered by that branch of ' Extension. A new pilot program has been started involving Rappahannock County, which if it is successful (which seems likely so far) will be expanded to include the entire state. That is an example of an innovative approach to excite children about important issues.
But 4-H has also suffered from declining enrollment as youngsters are offered more and more programs from other organizations. Its strength is the link between its programs and the traditional pursuits of a rural community. But as Rappahannock County continues to become more an outpost of suburbia, interest could wane there too. We hope not.
Perhaps the root of the problem lies in the fact that more organizations than ever are offering programs and services to our residents. That, by itself, almost guarantees that fewer people will join particular organizations. People have only so much time, and they will tend to devote their energy toward something which most nearly reflects their interests.
We don’t know what the answer to the Homemakers Clubs problem is — or even if there is an answer. But certainly the county’s clubs have a proud heritage, and we hope that they will continue to serve the county’s residents in some form.
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