08/03/2025
With the Illinois State Fair just around the corner, 4-H'ers from Macoupin County are finalizing their preparations to showcase their hard work, and we're excited to share the story of a remarkable young individual whose 4-H experience has empowered them to push beyond obstacles and achieve their goals.
From Andrea (Aria’s mom):
Having a kid with anxiety is difficult and heartbreaking at times. It involves a lot of fear and tears. I constantly am planning, explaining, and mapping out what to expect. It would be so easy not to push her and let her isolate into her comfort zone…. But that makes her miss out of wonderful opportunities and life!!! I was looking for something to help get her out of her comfort zone and have fun. 4H has been perfect for her. I have seen her completely grow and blossom. She loves picking projects, helping the community and learning about different things. She absolutely hates the demonstrations and talks. Sunday night prior to the Macoupin County Fair, Aria told me she was going to refuse to present her poster. I told her she needed to at least try and I would be with her the whole time if she needs. The morning of her presentation she refused to wake up and again said she wouldn’t have her poster judged. I asked her what would feel better and she said she would like Eric Ogden as her judge. We showed up and she checked in giving her name and poster. She waited watching everyone else. Last year there were lots of tears during this step. This year she sat quietly, and observed.
When it came to her turn Eric was with someone else. I asked her if she would like to wait and let another member go and she said no I’ll go talk to the girl. I was shocked, up she went and started talking… to a strangler! My heart burst open with pride. For some kids this is no big deal, for Aria this is amazing!! She was so proud of herself and told my grandma, “the last two years I cried, and had mom help me talk. This year I did it by myself!”
This kid is amazing and is slowly learning how to conquer her fears. She’s already thinking of next year and having multiple projects and judges
She thinks maybe she can handle 2.
We are incredibly proud of Aria and all the 4-H members who participated in the Macoupin County Fair. Stories like these highlight the dedication, talent, and growth fostered through 4-H, and we hope they inspire others to get involved and experience all that 4-H has to offer.
