In a recent gathering that spotlighted community support and collaboration, the Wright County Facilities Department received accolades for their work with local 4-H programs. The honor came during an Oct. 21 meeting where University of Minnesota Extension Educator Kelly Strei, stepping into the role of presenter, handed over the 2025 Friend of 4-H Supporter Award.
Experience had shown that the stage at the 4-H Building on the Wright County Fairgrounds was not only deteriorating but also presented barriers for people with disabilities. The Facilities Department saw through an overhaul, transforming it into an accessible space, now with a ramp for wider accessibility. According to a statement given to Wright County, Strei emphasized the department's impact: "We wanted to create a new, more accessible space for the young people that use that stage. They took action on it by creating the design, by assembling it and making it accessible by adding a ramp." Her gratitude was evident as she noted the department's contribution to inclusivity.
The recognition of the Facilities Department underscores Wright County's enduring commitment to 4-H, an organization embedded in the community with over 700 youth participants and a network of 200 adult volunteers aiding the progression of these young individuals.
The 4-H stage, renewed through this partnership, stands as a testament to such community-led improvement efforts. In the words of Strei, lauding the department's contribution, "We just want to say thank you to the Wright County Facilities Department for the gift you have given us to help us be inclusive of all the youth in Wright County that participate in our program."
