Wings Over Wisconsin Eden chapter at the Fond du Lac 4-H Achievement Banquet

On October 19, the Fond du Lac County 4-H program gathered families, volunteers, and community supporters for its annual Achievement Banquet, a night dedicated to recognizing the hard work, leadership, and growth of local 4-H youth. The event was held at Holy Family Catholic Church and showcased the very best of what 4-H represents: learning by doing, service to others, and building skills that last a lifetime.

A longtime supporter of youth and community initiatives, the Eden Chapter of Wings Over Wisconsin once again played an important role in making the evening a success. For more than 15 years, the Eden Chapter has proudly donated toward the awards presented at the 4-H Achievement Banquet.

This year, that commitment continued with a $1,000 donation designated specifically for awards recognizing outstanding youth accomplishments. James Ziegler attended the banquet on behalf of Wings Over Wisconsin, helping to personally celebrate the achievements of Fond du Lac County 4-H members.

 Fond du Lac County 4-H youth receiving Gold Record Book Awards and County Project Awards, representing the top 10% of 4-H youth in the county

Honoring Excellence in Fond du Lac County 4-H

The Fond du Lac County 4-H Achievement Program is an annual recognition event for members who have completed program requirements, including submitting record books that document their project work, leadership roles, and community involvement.

Leah Mess and Julia Theisen receiving 4-H Project Career Awards meaning they received multiple county project awards in a career area

Awards presented throughout the evening highlight growth across a wide range of areas, including:

• Project Awards for excellence in specific project areas

• Gold, Silver, and Bronze Record Book Awards, recognizing participation, personal growth, and leadership

• The prestigious Wisconsin 4-H Key Award, the highest county-level honor

• Community Service Awards, celebrating youth and clubs that make a difference locally

• Career, leadership, and achievement awards that reflect long-term commitment to learning

These recognitions would not be possible without strong community partners like Wings Over Wisconsin, whose financial support directly helps honor youth for their dedication and achievements.

Wings Over Wisconsin: Giving Back to Youth, Community, and Conservation

 Members of the Taft 23 4-H Club also recognized with a Community Service Award for their service efforts.

Wings Over Wisconsin is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to conserving Wisconsin’s wildlife, habitat, and outdoor heritage. Through its local chapters, including the Eden Chapter, the organization ensures that funds raised stay local, benefiting nearby communities while supporting conservation, education, and preservation efforts.

In the Eden and Fond du Lac areas, the Eden Chapter of Wings Over Wisconsin regularly gives back by supporting:

• Youth organizations such as 4-H, which foster leadership, responsibility, and environmental awareness

• Local community groups and events that strengthen connections between people and the outdoors

• Conservation and habitat preservation initiatives that protect wildlife for future generations

By supporting youth programs like 4-H, Wings Over Wisconsin helps instill values of stewardship, service, and respect for natural resources. Many 4-H projects focus on agriculture, natural sciences, wildlife, and environmental responsibility—areas that align closely with the mission of conservation and preservation.

Members of the Helping Hands 4-H Club receiving the Community Service Award for their impact in the community.

Strengthening the Community for the Future

The partnership between Wings Over Wisconsin and Fond du Lac County 4-H is a powerful example of how community support creates lasting impact. Donations toward awards not only recognize achievement but also motivate young people to continue growing as leaders, volunteers, and future conservationists.

As 4-H youth develop life skills, leadership abilities, and a sense of civic responsibility, the entire community benefits. In turn, conservation-focused organizations like Wings Over Wisconsin help ensure that Wisconsin’s outdoor heritage and wildlife are preserved for generations to come.

Thank you to Wings Over Wisconsin and the Eden Chapter for your continued support in recognizing the great work our 4-H kids do. Your generosity helps build stronger youth, stronger communities, and a stronger future for conservation in Wisconsin.

— Debbie Senn, Fond Du Lac 4H Leader