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By JOSEPH PILLITTERE

"What cannot be achieved in one lifetime will happen when one lifetime is joined to another." If you had a chance to visit this year's Chautauqua County Fair, you would have experienced a program that brings adult lifetime skills to area youth. That program is Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County's (CCE-CH) 4-H Youth Development Program. With the help of volunteers, who donate more than 14,000 hours of time per year, youth learn critical life skills through real-life experiences, activities and research-based lessons.

This program goes beyond educating youth for their future. It empowers them to succeed in life, no matter what challenges they may face in the future. Everything that's planned, delivered and practiced allows them to learn the importance of standing on their own two feet. It also helps to expand and enhance what they've learned in school. The culmination of the Program is the opportunity for 4-H'ers to show their skills and talents at the Chautauqua County Fair.

Together at the fair, 4-H'ers demonstrated improved thinking (HEAD), greater loyalty (HEART), increased service (HANDS) and made better choices (HEALTH). Their dedication and commitment to the general public, friends, and the program were clearly demonstrated each and every day.

In particular, their confidence, character and mannerisms were that of mature adults; however, they were not afraid to laugh and have fun. And, have fun they did. How else could you explain marshmallow wars and having to kiss a 1,000-plus pound steer. I was even lucky enough to get my own car "kissed" by one!

I looked forward to meeting new faces every day, and learning about their fair projects and outside interests. I enjoyed watching them learn from each other, and pitching in when someone needed help. Some kids took on leadership roles, by assisting younger 4-H'ers and working with older youth on specific projects.

The work ethic of these kids also needs to be mentioned. Kids are taught the importance of a strong work ethic, teamwork and collaboration. After all, every program area has to work in the Snack Bar during the Fair. These kids enjoy their time working in their specific barn or in the Snack Bar - and do it without pay. Instead, they get joy from working with others and seeing the "fruits of their labor" (money for award trips).

I can't forget the parents who also gave freely of their time, knowledge and experience to make this year's fair a success. These parents are directly involved at every stage of their child's development in 4-H. They are seen as the primary educator in the development of the whole child.

You'll often hear volunteers say that 4-H is a lot of work. Of course, that comment is always accompanied by "but it's worth it." I was raised to believe that anything worthwhile is never easy. It takes hard work, dedication and perseverance to make things happen. The 4-H Program is no different. It's no wonder that 4-H is a lot of work. The silver lining is watching and observing the actions by volunteers, supporters and 4-H members. You will see dedication and commitment, along with how two generations benefit from each other.

Research by the Search Institute of Minneapolis found that the more opportunities young people have to develop their capacities in positive ways, the less likely they are to engage in problem behaviors and the more likely they are to engage in positive, pro-social behaviors.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention all the businesses that continue to support our 4-H Program, especially during these tough economic times. Money raised in the Snack Bar pays for award trips, which must be earned by 4-H members. Other businesses continue to purchase animals from 4-H members at the Market Animal Sale. Money from this sale goes to the kids, who use it for college tuition, local charities, computers, clothes and other personal items.

Finally, I want to thank the OBSERVER for dedicating valuable space every day of the fair to highlight the accomplishments of 4-H youth. Your support of this program is greatly appreciated by our Association, 4-H'ers, parents and avid supporters.

Joseph Pillittere is the executive director of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County.