Last week, 4-H Manitoba confirmed it will continue receiving $300,000 in annual provincial funding—a commitment unchanged since 2016. President Greg Penner formally accepted the renewed support during a presentation at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair in Brandon, as noted by Executive Director Shannon Carvey.
Funding agreement origins
Carvey explained the financial partnership traces back to when agricultural programming shifted from federal oversight to provincial management.
"The Department of Agriculture transferred responsibilities from the department to Manitoba for each Council. At that time, the funding agreement was developed so that Manitoba 4-H Council could carry on the work of 4-H that the Department of Agriculture had done historically over the years. Since that time, we have been very grateful to have been receiving the $300,000 annually."
Grassroots program impact
The funding directly supports youth members and local leaders through province-wide projects. Carvey stressed its role in funding events like Intermediate Camps, Rally, and Provincial Communications—a flagship program that builds public speaking and teamwork.
"Communications is one of the most important aspects of 4-H, in my opinion, and it really provides our members the ability to speak in front of a group of people. That's really important in adult life."
Agricultural roots and diversity
While 4-H remains rooted in agriculture, its programming spans over 80 hands-on projects.
Carvey notes, "Beef projects will make up half of our membership and and then equine follows after that. But we have over 80 projects that we offer, and they all are experiential hands-on learning. Our motto is 'Learn to do by doing.' But everything ties back to agriculture."
From food science to livestock care, activities emphasize connections to farming’s role in daily life.
Federal vs. provincial funding clarity
Recent federal cuts to 4-H Canada sparked concerns, but Carvey clarified provincial funding remains separate and secure.
"We're really grateful to have our relationship with the Department of Agriculture. Even though all duties have transferred over to Manitoba 4-H Council, we still work really closely with the Department of Agriculture and we have a great working relationship with them."
Ongoing collaboration
The organization continues to work with provincial advisors on curriculum development and event planning.
Carvey notes, "It's really great to be able to work directly with the Department of Agriculture on a lot of things that are happening on 4-H."