The St. Mary’s County 4-H 2025 Achievement Banquet, held at the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department, celebrated the accomplishments of local youth, volunteers, and community partners involved in the 4-H program. Supported by the University of Maryland Extension, the event recognized achievements in diverse projects such as livestock, leadership, crafts, and state contests, highlighting the program’s broad reach and multigenerational community involvement. Fundraising activities during the banquet supported scholarships and future programming, emphasizing the community’s commitment to youth development.

Key speakers, including 4-H program specialists and County Commissioner Eric Colvin, underscored the program’s role in fostering responsibility, leadership, and real-world skills among youth, many of whom pursue careers in agriculture and trades. Personal success stories, like that of 15-year-old Delia Vallandingham, illustrated the impact of 4-H on individual growth and opportunities at state and national levels. The banquet concluded with awards honoring members’ achievements and reinforced the 4-H motto, “To Make the Best Better,” reflecting the program’s ongoing mission to empower youth across St. Mary’s County.