Who We Are

The 4-H Foundation of Sonoma County, a non-profit 501c(3) corporation, was established in 1982 to support, promote and enhance the 4-H program in Sonoma County. Through the Foundation, 4-H clubs and county-wide projects, activities and events can apply for grants to enhance and benefit their 4-H work. Scholarships are available for youth to attend education conferences throughout California and the United States to enrich their lives. The Foundation is also proud to offer educational scholarships to promising young men and women to attend college and trade schools.

In 1994 the 4-H Foundation built the Sonoma County 4-H Center for the 4-H youth program. Located in Rohnert Park, the Center is used for club and county events and activities, training events for adult leaders and members, outreach activities and general 4-H meeting space. The multi-purpose room is capable of accommodating 300 people with flexibility to divide the space into 2 medium-sized rooms or 4 small rooms. The building has a kitchen, office space, outdoor space for miscellaneous educational events and activities and adequate parking. The Foundation continues to operate and maintain this 4-H Center.

The Foundation is administered by a Board of Directors representing 4-H, finance, education, business and agriculture.

The directors are:

Jim Bertoli
John Cornolo
Karen Correa
Shelby Cover
Jennifer Crane
Shirley Dempel
Shari DeGraffenreid
Tony Ghisla
Camilla Gray / Nelson
Kristie Gross
Debra Grove
Fred Groverman
Saralee McClelland Kunde
Mike Leventini
Sam McMillan
Ann Carnali-Middlebrook
Mike Nonella
Annette O’Kelley
Tom Parsons
Stephanie Larson-Praplan
Floyd Ridenhour
Greg Simpkins
Victoria Hamilton-Stornetta
Tim Tesconi
Executive Director: Susan Hansen

Directors Emeritus:
Elvira Lavell
Steve Olsen
Art Volkerts
Office Manager: Lisa Jack

The board is committed to providing financial resources to enhance the 4-H youth program in Sonoma County. Donors can be assured that their contributions will be managed efficiently and distributed in a judicious manner.

THE SONOMA COUNTY 4-H program has provided quality “learn-by-doing” education to help young people develop life skills for over 75 years. Many of the county’s bankers, lawyers, business executives and civic leaders credit 4-H for their early training and leadership. Additionally, many Sonoma County farmers trace their agricultural beginnings to 4-H club work.

To inquire about the Sonoma County 4-H Program; its projects, events and activities call 707-565-2681 or go to www.ucanr.org/soco4h
For information about the 4-H program in California see http://wwwca4h.org