The Evergreen State Fair will be celebrating Ruth Avila as this year's Fair Honoree, recognizing her 26 years of unwavering commitment to 4-H programs and youth education. Avila, whose contributions span across club leadership and educational initiatives, has dedicated over a quarter-century to nurturing the minds and talents of future leaders through 4-H's array of projects and activities.
Avila has continuously stepped in up to fill leadership gaps, first as the leader of the Esprit De Corps club, guiding more than 100 members in 20 different projects, and then founding and leading the "Friendly Critters” club for over 15 years. She's been notably active at both local and state levels, including roles such as the Dog Program and Judging Event Leader and the Dog Bowl Coordinator for Snohomish County. At the state level, Avila has contributed as a Dog Bowl Facilitator as well, according to official county announcements.
Her leadership extends to her participation in the Snohomish County 4-H Council. Here, Avila has served as Vice President and Secretary, and she remains an integral part of the council's annual judging procedures. Not just content to lead, she also polishes the spirit of public presentations as a program leader and fair superintendent, earning her recognition with awards like a State Jacket and a Volunteer of the Year nomination in 2019.
It's Avila's understated approach to her accomplishments that stands out. "Ruth has never bragged or boasted about all she has accomplished but instead takes great pride in the accomplishments of our future leaders," Fair Manager Mike Ohlson said. His reflection on Avila's humility and focus on the success of others underscores the community's gratitude towards her decades of service. Apart from 4-H, Ruth is a fixture at Junior Livestock Shows, often found to be busy with record book judging among other tasks.
The fair's opening day on August 22 will see Ruth Avila proudly cutting the ribbon at 2:00 p.m. on the Courtyard Stage, honoring her long-standing service to the community. In addition, she will take part in the Monroe Fair Days Parade, set to commence at 11:00 a.m. on August 24 in downtown Monroe, celebrating the traditions she has helped foster through her commitment to service, education, and youth empowerment.
