Anyone who thinks that 4-H groups are simply about raising farm animals should stop by the Lawrence County Fairgrounds next month.

The 28 youth clubs of the county are truly chomping at the bit to show the community that their groups know a thing or two about farming as well as a whole lot of other life skills the more than 1,000 youth have picked up.

But these young men and women need your help and your appreciation. Whether you grew up on a farm or consider yourself a true city slicker, we hope to see the everyone come out to show their support when the fair kicks off July 8 to 15.

These youth have worked hard on all their projects so everyone should take the time to show our appreciation for their efforts and all of the positive impact that 4-H.

For anyone who doesn’t know what 4-H is all about a visit to the fairgrounds will be an eye-opening experience.

Many of more recognizable 4-H projects can be found in the barns — just follow the oinking, neighing, clucking and other sounds that will lead you to the horses, pigs, goats, rabbits and other livestock.

But a little closer inspection will show visitors that 4-H now includes projects such as aerospace demonstrations, genealogy, interior design, photography and more.

However, it is what all these projects mean to the youth that should be truly considered. The students learn countless skills that include responsibility, organization, hard work and leadership — all traits that will serve them well as they grow into young adults and the leaders of tomorrow.

In addition to just coming to show their moral support, the community can help these youth actually start planning for their futures.

The small market sale, which includes rabbits, tobacco and chickens, will be at 7 p.m. July 14. The large market sale, which includes lambs, goats, steers, will be at 10 a.m. July 15. Fairgoers can bid on these items and give the youth a nice jumpstart on their college plans.

We urge the entire community to support the fair and support 4-H. Likely, you will have lots of fun in the process — from the barn to the grandstand.