By Karen Henry
Extension Faculty/4-H

Karen Kirkendall, an Osceola County 4-H volunteer, was recently inducted into the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame.

Kirkendall has been involved in the Osceola County 4-H program for more than 30 years, as a 4-H parent volunteer, 4-H project leader and 4-H club leader.

The Florida 4-H Hall of Fame was established in 2002 to recognize exceptional individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the 4-H program. Established during the national 4-H program’s centennial year, 100 members were inducted into the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame. Since then, five volunteers have been inducted each year.  The Hall of Fame’s members include outstanding 4-H alumni, volunteers, extension agents, program leaders and supporters.

Kirkendall is a constant cheerleader and supporter of hundreds of Osceola County 4-H youth, including her own children and grandchildren, 4-H officials have said.  She is a long-time member of the Osceola County 4-H advisory committee and 4-H Foundation.  She has been active in the Osceola County Fair, chairing the youth exhibits section, providing youth the opportunity to show what they have learned in their 4-H projects to the public.

Kirkendall has served as president of the Florida 4-H Volunteer Association, mentored many leaders needing her assistance and has taught numerous workshops to 4-H volunteers. She also has contributed many hours to the Florida 4-H leader forums and Southern Region 4-H volunteer forums.  

Kirkendall also has won the State 4-H Volunteer of the Year award and the Sage Award from the State 4-H Volunteer Association. She also was selected twice by her peers as the 4-H Volunteer of the Year for Osceola County.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Osceola County 4-H program or would like to volunteer, contact Osceola County Extension Services/4-H at 321-697-3000 or osceola4h@ifas.ufl.edu or visit http://osceola.ifas.ufl.edu/.