Bailey named Oklahoma 4-H Volunteer of the Year
Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Media Contact: Trisha Gedon | Sr. Communications Specialist | 405-744-3625 | trisha.gedon@okstate.edu
He may not have been involved in the 4-H Youth Development program as a youngster, but Randy Bailey is making a difference in the organization today as a volunteer leader.
His efforts were recognized recently at the annual Parent-Volunteer Conference at Oklahoma State University when he was named the 4-H Volunteer Leader of the Year. He was also recognized as the Northeast District Volunteer of the Year and the Creek County Volunteer of the Year. These awards are presented to someone with less than 10 years of volunteer service.
Bailey said a post on Facebook piqued his interest in volunteering for the organization.
“A friend posted that Creek County needed a 4-H archery coach,” he said. “That was the first I knew that 4-H had shooting sports. I’ve enjoyed shooting and hunting since I was a child, and I thought I would really enjoy this … and I do. I’m now certified in archery, shotgun, hunting skills, rifle and pistol.”
Randi Hill, Creek County OSU Extension 4-H educator, said Bailey has made a world of difference in the county’s archery program.
“Over the past four years, Mr. Bailey has diligently transformed our archery program from a mere concept into a thriving success, with over 60 kids participating,” Hill said. “He is deeply committed to offering a comprehensive 4-H experience for club members, advocating for education and active 4-H participation in 4-H events.”
Once he completed the Hunting Skills certification, Bailey took the initiative to launch a shooting sports club in Creek County. He invested numerous hours in training members for state competitions. As a result, several members have excelled and qualified for national teams in both hunting skills and archery clubs.
In addition, Hill said Bailey has dedicated significant effort to cultivating leadership with the archery club; Bailey established a youth advisory committee composed of club officers who play a crucial role in managing practices and club events. He also has secured grants to purchase needed equipment for the archery club.
Shooting sports club member Killian Baker said he has learned valuable skills from Bailey.
“Mr. Bailey has helped over 60 shooters, including myself, become better at archery and encouraged them to participate in district and state competitions,” Baker said. “Winning was not a priority for Mr. Bailey; growing and getting experience to become better was his priority. We’re not only better shooters in archery, but he built our leadership skills and confidence. He has invested so much time to make the Creek County Archery Club one of the best in the state.”
Bailey said he’s proud of how each participant has developed as a person and competitor.
“I support them 100%, and they support me,” he said. “It’s a privilege and an honor to work with these youth and parents. It’s rewarding to watch the youth progress both socially and as very skilled participants in shooting sports.”
More information about 4-H shooting sports is available online or contact the county OSU Extension office.