The Indiana 4‑H Foundation YES Grant program gives youth-led projects the financial boost they need to get off the ground and start making a difference in the community.
In 2024, the Indiana 4‑H Foundation awarded 23 YES Grants for a total of $21,606.30! The grantees received funding based on proposals they submitted to the Indiana 4‑H Foundation.
In Marshall County, Travis Barnhart and his fellow Junior Leaders were awarded $1,000 for their Comfort Care Kit initiative. The kits included essential personal hygiene and household cleaning items to support individuals in the community who may lack access to these fundamental necessities.
The group used YES grant funds to create five different types of kits: Household Wash, Body Wash, Shaving, Feminine Hygiene, and Dental. A total of 367 kits were distributed to seven food banks and pantries in Marshall County.
The effort was impactful for the Junior Leaders, the recipient organizations, and the community.
Karen Worsham from Bourbon Helping Hands Food Pantry expressed her gratitude, saying, “We are so grateful for the boxes of kits to help our community. Last year, we received Birthday Boxes from the YES grant, and we were hopeful for another donation this year.”
“Throughout this experience, I have learned that with effort and determination, a group of young kids can accomplish remarkable things and make a drastic improvement in people’s lives,” shared Travis.
Their efforts didn’t go unnoticed in the community. “As we were shopping, area stores applauded our efforts and expressed interest in helping fund future projects,” Travis said. “One shopper overheard what we were doing and gave us $20 to help buy more supplies. She was blown away by the efforts of the Jr. Leaders to do good and to help others. We learned quickly that the community sees and is aware of the impact 4‑H has.”
YES Grant Profile:
NAME: Travis Barnhart
SCHOOL: Triton High School, Class of 2025
HOBBIES: Flying, Running & Raising Swine
FAVORITE 4‑H ACTIVITY: Flipping pancakes at the Marshall County 4‑H Council Blueberry Pancake breakfast.
4‑H MENTOR SHOUT OUT: Trent, my older brother. His guidance and support have made a significant impact, showing the ropes in 4‑H and being there every step of the way. He embodies what it means to be a true mentor and brother.
FUTURE PLANS: My plan after graduation is to become an agricultural engineer.