Billerica 4-H club awarded grant from Mass. 4-H Foundation

FRAMINGHAM — The Black Walnut 4-H Club, based out of Billerica, was awarded a $1,500 BOOST (Building Opportunities and Organizational Strength Together) grant from the Massachusetts 4-H Foundation in June. The Black Walnut 4-H Club will use the funds for items that will enhance the club’s recruitment capabilities.

“The Black Walnut 4-H Club is very excited and about the BOOST grant and will be working on attending events in our community to increase our club’s enrollment as well as build an online presence,” said Adrienne Card, leader of the club.

“The BOOST Grant Program reflects the Foundation’s deep commitment to strengthening the Massachusetts 4-H community by investing directly in the creativity and capacity of our clubs, fairs, and advisory councils,” said Robert Kordenbrock, Executive Director of the Massachusetts 4-H Foundation. “This year, we’re proud to distribute a record $45,000 to 21 recipients across the Commonwealth — each grant representing a powerful vision for youth development. These grants are not just financial support; they are votes of confidence in the next generation of leaders made possible thanks to the generosity of donors who believe in and support 4-H, and we are deeply grateful for their continued partnership.”

The Massachusetts 4-H Foundation launched its BOOST grant program in 2024. This year, 21 4-H entities, including 4-H clubs, advisories and fairs, were awarded grants totaling $45,000 in the areas of general operating, capacity building, and equity and inclusion.

The Massachusetts 4-H Foundation is an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization committed to the mission of enriching and advancing of 4-H youth development programs throughout the commonwealth. Established in 1955, the foundation generates and provides resources to help expand the 4-H program in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts 4-H is a youth development program open to all young people ages 5 through 18 throughout the commonwealth. It is part of a nationwide system connected to each land-grant institution of higher education and as such, has access to a wealth of resources and curriculum. In Massachusetts, 4-H is based at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and offers programming to youth in every county in the state.