UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- More than 45 million people in the United States are 4-H alumni. As 4-H approaches its national centennial, the organization hopes to re-establish contact with members and volunteers from years gone by.

"We have been touched by the stories of people who had 4-H experiences that altered the course of their lives," says Marilyn Corbin, assistant director of Penn State Cooperative Extension and state program leader for children, youth and families.

"While we have been able to keep in touch with many alumni, we know there are countless others with whom we've lost contact. I think they would be pleased and proud to see what 4-H is doing in our communities now, and their insights could benefit today's youth."

During the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg, Pa., during January 2002, 4-H will recognize the oldest 4-H alumni in the state. The organization is asking for help to locate 4-H alumni.

If you or someone you know has ever participated in 4-H, the organization wants to provide information on the upcoming centennial, which will be celebrated throughout 2002.

You can contact the organization by telephone at 814-863-6109, on the Internet at http://pa4h.cas.psu.edu/4halumni.html or by writing to Pennsylvania 4-H, The Pennsylvania State University, 323 Ag Administration Building, University Park, Pa. 16802.

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EDITORS: You can reach Marilyn Corbin at 814-863-6109.

Contact:

Jeff Mulhollem jjm29@psu.edu 814-863-2719 814-865-1068 fax