Brad James recognized for volunteer service to 4-H
Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Media Contact: Trisha Gedon | Sr. Communications Specialist | 405-744-3625 | trisha.gedon@okstate.edu
Although his time as a 4-H’er in his youth was limited, Brad James’ grandfather inspired him to become a volunteer leader.
His dedication to the Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development program was recognized recently at the annual Parent-Volunteer Conference at Oklahoma State University. James was named the 4-H Lifetime Volunteer of the Year, West District 4-H Lifetime Volunteer of the Year and the Texas County 4-H Lifetime Volunteer of the Year.
“My grandfather was a volunteer for 40 years, and I was always taught to give back to my community, state or nation,” James said. “When my oldest son turned 9 and enrolled in Texas County 4-H, I became a volunteer leader in the animal science and shooting sports projects. I believe the greatest impact we have on youth is to lead by example.”
James has served as a volunteer with the Texas County Loyal Doers 4-H Club since 1988. He has been a national shooting sports instructor since 1996 and is president of the Texas County 4-H Parent Volunteer Association.
Staying true to his belief in leading by example, James has impacted hundreds of youth over the years.
“Many youth today are looking for guidance that gives them purpose and worth to believe in themselves,” he said. “Many youth aren’t receiving this guidance. This is where I, as a volunteer leader, can have an impact on them. Our job as leaders or volunteers is to shape the youth of today so they can take our place later and impact future generations.”
One example of his leadership began 11 years ago when he challenged his club members to start a community service project. They organized a silent auction of homemade baked goods with proceeds benefitting the 4-H Ronald McDonald campaign. The auction was a success, and when the Ronald McDonald campaign ended, the club members continued the project with proceeds going to the Hooker Christmas Angel project, which provides gifts to less fortunate children. Through the years, this silent auction has netted more than $10,000 for these two service-learning projects.
James’ spirit of giving of his time and efforts is contagious. Don Jahraus said James played a large part in him and his wife, Angela, becoming volunteers.
“Our son started 4-H in 2021, and Brad has been a great mentor to us as volunteers. He has been a big influence on our son, Grant, and supports his rabbit project,” Jahraus said. “He recommended Grant start a rabbit club and has encouraged him in this venture. Brad also was influential in other animals being shown at the local livestock show. Grant has been able to show his rabbits at the show for two years. When Brad retires from volunteering – hopefully not for a long, long time – we hope we’ve learned enough from him that can carry on his great legacy.”
Loyal Doers club member Reagan Werner said James’ leadership helps develop future leaders.
“He never leaves anyone out. He pushes us out of our comfort zones by having us do things like give prepared speeches,” Werner said. “He has been an important role model to me, and I consider him a family member.”
Texas County 4-H educator Arleen James knows first-hand how Brad James has enriched the 4-H program. He’s not only one of her volunteers, he’s also her husband.
“Brad has encouraged, motivated and led 4-H members into career choices and is respected by both 4-H members and their parents,” she said. “He is a caring individual and has changed lives through his years of service to the program.”
More information about 4-H is available online or by contacting the nearest county OSU Extension office.