This award honors a volunteer who has demonstrated outstanding service to 4-H and the community through ongoing dedication and positive impact.

Kim Bates was honored with the 2025 4-H Volunteer of the Year Award on January 18, 2026, at the Buffalo County 4-H Leaders’ Association Meeting. This award recognizes a 4-H volunteer who goes above and beyond in their service, demonstrates excellence at the club and county levels, and provides outstanding support, guidance, and leadership to 4-H youth.

Kim was selected for this honor in recognition of her dedication to the Buffalo County 4-H Dog Project. Through her leadership, Kim teaches youth and their dogs how to work together as a successful team, building skills, confidence, and responsibility along the way. She works closely with the Fair Association to ensure the dog show remains a positive, high-quality learning experience for all participants.

In addition, Kim has been a strong advocate for growth and improvement within the dog project, supporting updates and changes that encourage increased youth participation and continued program success. Her passion, commitment, and care for both youth and the 4-H program make a lasting impact.

The Buffalo County 4-H Leaders’ Association is proud to recognize Kim Bates as the 2025 recipient of the 4-H Volunteer of the Year Award and sincerely thanks her for her exceptional service to Buffalo County 4-H.