Photo courtesy of Botetourt 4-H
Botetourt County 4-H hosted its annual Achievement Program on Sunday at the Fincastle Volunteer Fire Department, recognizing outstanding accomplishments from youth across eight local clubs. Each club selected one standout member as a nominee for the 2024-2025 Botetourt County 4-H Member of the Year Award.
Ashley Wilmer of the 4-H Horse and Pony Club was named the 2024-2025 Botetourt County 4-H Member of the Year, earning recognition for her dedication, leadership, and contributions to her club and the wider 4-H community.
This year’s nominees included:
- Willow Atkins, 4-Honey Club
- Gretchen Huffman, 4-H Teen Leadership Club
- Paul Turman, 4-H Livestock Club
- Ian Martin, 4-H Shooting Education Club
- Owen Mattarocchia, FRC Robotics Club
- Paul Turman, 4-H Dairy Club
- Kayla Henry, 4-H Cooking Club
- Ashley Wilmer, 4-H Horse and Pony Club
Former recipients of the Member of the Year Award returned for the celebration, including Rachel Edwards (2021–2022), JJ Halsted (2022–2023), and Paul Theimer (2023–2024). Continuing a growing tradition, last year’s honoree, Paul Theimer, delivered remarks on the lasting influence of 4-H and presented this year’s award.
“I think it’s so important to showcase our youth and the great things that they are doing through the 4-H program,” Botetourt 4-H Extension Agent Tyler Painter said. “It gives them the opportunity to be recognized in front of their peers, but to also see what activities and programs other 4-H members are participating in. Our volunteers are instrumental in providing these opportunities through the countless hours of dedication that they provide.”
Event organizers extended appreciation to the many members, volunteers, and parents who contributed to the program’s success through planning, setup, and cleanup efforts. The celebration highlighted the achievements of local youth and set a positive tone for another year of growth, learning, and community engagement within Botetourt County 4-H.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
