Together, Linda Wooten and Rosemarie Oschmann have volunteered for 75 years with the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension 4-H program. Their efforts have helped thousands of children develop essential leadership, life and workforce skills through a wealth of projects ranging from public speaking and citizenship to cooking, sewing and equestrian science.
So, it was no surprise when both women received the Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer Award during the annual 4-H Appreciation and Achievement Night. The prestigious award recognizes adult volunteers who have served 4-H for 10 years or more and have demonstrated outstanding service to 4-H, while promoting volunteerism as an opportunity and privilege to serve the community.
As a co-leader of the 4-H Helpful Hearts Club, Oschmann has dedicated 30 years of service to youth in Palm Beach County. “Rosemarie makes education fun for youth,” said her mother, Helen Adler. “She recognizes that each young person brings with them varying levels of skills and maturity, and tailors her instruction to help each child reach his or her goals.”
As a member of the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame, Adler knows what it takes to help youth thrive.
For the past 45 years, Wooten has made a difference in the lives of youth and families in 4-H and across the equestrian community. As a 4-H horse project leader and member of Palm Beach County 4-H Association, Wooten has been instrumental in developing the countywide program by helping to plan and implement equestrian competition and shows, fundraising to provide financial assistance for children, and preparing young people to not only become skilled in equestrian science and horsemanship, but to also develop into responsible, successful adults.
“If we could have a little more of Linda within ourselves, this world would be a better place,” said Pam Kalil, who nominated Wooten for the award. “She would do anything for anyone, most importantly, the boys and girls in our 4-H program.”
To learn how you can volunteer with Palm Beach County 4-H, call Jonathan Mayer at (561) 233-1731 or e-mail fourh@pbcgov.org.
