Moonshine (Moonie) Shorey recently accepted the position of University of Vermont (UVM) Extension 4-H educator for Bennington and Rutland Counties.

Shorey, who is based in the UVM Extension office in Rutland, filled in as the interim 4-H educator for the two counties in late summer and fall before being hired for the fulltime position. As an interim employee, he coordinated and facilitated 4-H’s involvement at the 2024 Vermont State Fair. He also collaborated with club leaders to participate in recruiting efforts for club members and volunteers.

 “I plan to keep enriching the established clubs and promote recruitment of new clubs, members and volunteers to service the needs of my constituents,” Shorey said of his new position. “I will also work with the other 4-H educators in the state to grow the 4-H program throughout Vermont.”

Rutland County currently has 10 clubs and Bennington County, three, along with independent members not affiliated with any clubs. Among the most popular projects for club members are horse, robotics, shooting sports, sewing, crafts, dairy and dog.

Prior to being hired by UVM Extension, Shorey’s 4-H involvement included serving as an adult volunteer for the Rutland County Performance and Arts club and as a chaperone for the Vermont delegation to Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. He is also a former Rutland County 4-H Foundation board member.

His background includes work in behavioral health, supporting clients with various health and social needs. He was a founding member and helped manage the Rutland County Pride Center and was a board co-chair for the first two Pride Festivals in Rutland County.

According to Sarah Kleinman, state 4-H director, “Moonie’s event-planning skills, his experience connecting and supporting youth and adults with various needs and his creative side will be a great help to his work.”

The 4-H educator was born in Rutland although worked in New York City for several years before returning to Vermont. He invites 4-H’ers, their parents and guardians and anyone interested in learning more about 4-H in Bennington and Rutland Counties to reach out.

“I want to hear what 4-H means to them and what they want in terms of programming and events,” he said.

Shorey can be reached at moonshine.shorey@uvm.edu or (802) 656-7586.