RAPID CITY, S.D. — Young entrepreneurs got a head start in the Black Hills during the second annual Black Hills Kid-Made Market, hosted by Pennington County 4-H in their building at the Central States Fairgrounds. Kids were selling everything from baked goods and leather crafts to handmade jewelry, pet treats, crocheted items, and even a published book.Visitors and vendors tell NewsCenter1 that 4H has evolved significantly from its roots as an agricultural-education program. Branden Heid, a 4H dad, says the organization has broadened its scope to fit modern interests.

“What we’ve seen with the other kids is that they’re broadening their level of things that you can do compared to how they used to,” Heid said, “I think it’s more diversified now for other interests.”

Tables at the event were provided free of charge to 4-H members, but the market was open to any young entrepreneur in the community. Ashlynn Wellman, a member of Pennington County 4-H, says that this inclusive, community-focused approach is what sets the organization apart.“4H is more family-oriented which is really cool because I can do it with my parents, I can do it with my sister, and we can do it as a group and meet other families versus just individualized,” Wellman said.

Kids in Pennington County 4-H are involved in a wide range of activities, including livestock judging, dog shows, and shooting sports, all designed to fit the organization’s “learn by doing” goals. For other kids thinking about joining or starting their own venture, Wellman offered encouragement.“Anything you have, just bring it forward,” Wellman said, “It might not be your best, but the more you work on it, the better it gets and before you know it, you’ll be a huge table with everything you want.”The Pennington County 4H operates out of its building on the Central States Fairgrounds at 601 E. Centre St. in Rapid City. Families interested in joining the program can call (605) 394-2188 for more information.

Per grew up in Sioux Falls and graduated from South Dakota Mines. He found his passion for weather reporting by the impact it has on the community, both in how people work and how it brings people together through severe weather preparation. He also has a passion for preventing health issues with Air Quality Index awareness. Per can be found enjoying outdoor activities in the Black Hills when the weather allows.

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