During National Volunteer Month in April, Vermont 4-H wants its nearly 1,000 volunteers to know how much their time, commitment and service, which they provide to youth and families across the state, is appreciated.

"Our volunteers give so much," University of Vermont Extension 4-H Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator Amanda Royce recently told Across the Fence. "They really are the heart of our program, and they're running clubs and they're doing so many things."

So this year, Royce organized a set of statewide awards for 4-H volunteers, seven in total. Read on to learn about the winners for 2026. 

4-H Spark Igniter Award: Cindy Kayhart, Addison County

A grey and yellow graphic with green text that says 4-H spark igniter award and the name cindy kayhart and the words thank you for bringing the energy, creativity and fun to 4-H!

Cindy has been a 4-H volunteer for 27 years, and for more than two decades, she’s served as head chaperone for the National 4-H Dairy Conference. What stands out about Cindy is how she goes above and beyond, adding in experiences like the World Dairy Expo, Capitol tours, and farm visits. She does more than just take youth to an event, she’s creates an experience that leaves them more confident, inspired, and with a clearer vision for their future.

Green & Growing: Emily Harvey-Lacroix, Washington County 

A green and grey graphic that has text reading 4-H green and growing award, the name emily harvey-lacroix and the words thank you for bringing fresh energy and making a positive impact in such a short time.

Even though she’s newer in her role, Emily has jumped in with energy, passion, and commitment to youth. Having grown up in 4-H and served as a teen volunteer, she truly understands what makes the program meaningful. She runs engaging, well-organized meetings and creates new opportunities for youth, like organizing a mini quiz bowl and Hippology event for Washington County. Her enthusiasm and initiative have already made a big impact and truly reflect what it means to be Green & Growing in 4-H.

Clover Commitment: Kristen McLaughlin, Rutland County

A green and grey graphic with the words 4-H clover commitment award, the name kristen mclaughlin and the text thank you for supporting members and projects with dedication and heart

Kristen is someone you can always count on, she’s the person who steps in whenever and wherever she’s needed. What you really notice is the support she provides, not just to the youth, but also to her fellow volunteers and even her newer County Educator. That kind of steady, reliable presence makes a huge difference in a program like 4-H. Kristen truly represents the heart of 4-H.

Blue Ribbon Belonging Award: Melissa Morin, Lamoille County

A yellow and grey graphic with green text reading blue ribbon belonging award, the name melissa morin and the text thank you for fostering belonging and helping all youth thrive in your 4-H club.

Where Melissa shines is in creating 4-H spaces where youth feel safe to be their true selves. She encourages them to share their ideas, express who they are, and support one another without judgment.  Her thoughtful approach, creativity, and commitment to supporting all youth make a meaningful and lasting impact on the program and the communities she serves.

Event Champion Award:  Mary Fay, Chittenden County

A green and gray graphic with the text 4-H event champion award, the name Mary Fay and the words thank you for helping create safe, engaging and memorable 4-H experiences for youth.

With 55 years in 4-H, Mary has been a constant, trusted presence—always stepping in to support youth and fellow volunteers. She brings care and reliability that help events run smoothly. As State 4-H Horse Middle Manager, she’s shaped quality experiences statewide while continuing to lead a local 4-H club and staying connected to her community. Whether behind the scenes or hands-on, Mary is someone you can always count on.

Friends of 4-H Partner Award: Bianca Fernandez, Windham County

a yellow and grey graphic with text in green reading friends of 4-H award, the name bianca fernandez and the text thank you for strengthening 4-H through your partnership, support and commitment to youth.

Bianca is a social worker at Brattleboro Union High School and a key partner in the OH-YEA Empowering Youth Agriculture grant. She has a unique ability to turn creative ideas into meaningful opportunities for young people. One example: she helped create the CAVE Kitchen and Garden, a student-run café and learning space where youth gain hands-on experience in agriculture, cooking, and customer service. Through the Daily Bear café, youth develop real-world skills while serving their community, all within a supportive environment led by Bianca. There every young person, especially neurodivergent students, can feel confident and thrive.

Legacy Leader: Beverly Wilkinson, Essex County

A grey and green graphic with the text 4-H legacy leader award, the name beverly wilkinson and the words thank you for 48 years of dedication and for shaping generations of 4-H youth.

For over 48 years, Beverly has led the Lads and Lassies 4-H Club, with an impact that’s truly generational, now including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She’s a steady presence at fairs, a strong supporter of youth at all levels, and a longtime leader on the Essex County 4-H Foundation. Beverly’s dedication has shaped generations, leaving a lasting impact on 4-H.

Congratulations to these statewide 4-H award-winners!