Nancy Lashley is a pillar in the Logan County 4-H Program

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Nancy Lashley is receiving the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 3. Nancy volunteers with the Logan County 4-H program and was nominated by Caitlyn Jacobson, Nebraska Extension Educator in Lincoln, Logan, and McPherson Counties.

Nancy, as well as her husband Bart, has been a pillar in the Logan County 4-H community for over 30 years. Their involvement began when their children were members, and now, they maintain their involvement through various volunteer roles. Nancy has been integral in establishing and maintaining the county shooting sports program. Currently, she is serving as the 4-H Council president. She has even assisted in recruiting volunteers to support the program. As a mentor for new 4-H families, Nancy takes time to build relationships, establish open lines of communication, and ensure everyone is informed about 4-H events.

"Her creativity allows her to support families in finding more economic ways of doing a project," wrote Caitlyn. "This has allowed more families to get involved and complete projects they otherwise would not have."

Nancy goes above and beyond to support youth. As a retired teacher, she understands how to engage youth and create excitement. She uses this in her volunteer role to help connect youth with projects and activities that fit their interests and organize workshops and showmanship clinics. Nancy takes extra steps to ensure environments are inclusive and appropriate for youth with unique needs. 

"I have witnessed her coach youth through their frustrations and offer alternative solutions," wrote Caitlyn. "She also celebrates the small and big victories with them."

Tell us about yourself.

I have been involved with 4-H for almost 60 years. First as a member, then as a leader. My main focus as a member was in home environment. When my kids were in 4-H, we branched out into the livestock- horse, sheep, dog, cat, and companion animals. Currently, I help with Shooting Sports and serve on the Logan County 4-H Council.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Helping kids.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

The year my daughter won the overall small animal (dog, cat, chickens, rabbits & companion animals) trophy for her salamander.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

I’ve led many sewing workshops and hope that my love of sewing has rubbed off on some of them.