Adams County UW-Extension
569 N. Cedar Street, Suite 3
Adams, WI 53910
608-339-4237 (phone)
608-339-4266 (fax)
711 for Wisconsin Relay
July 18, 2011
Dear Adams County 4-H Club Organizational Leaders, Leaders Association and Chartered County Wide Projects;
It is with sincere gratitude for your continuous hard work and dedication that I share this latest development in the
Wisconsin 4-H State Policies. Your important role within our 4-H Youth Development Program is vital to the successful transitions outlined in this letter and the enclosed documents.
4-H Educators across the state just learned of these changes in June and will be making this a priority in the upcoming months. These changes are unlike any other in their importance for the future of 4-H programming. I know you will have questions; I have many questions also. Please know and trust that I am here to support you through this transition.
The Pension Reform Act of 2006 made significant changes in IRS laws and guidelines. As a result, the GEN number held through 4-H National Headquarters will be eliminated and all states have been directed to secure tax-exempt status for 4-H groups within their state. All 4-H clubs, groups and committees are accountable to Cooperative
Extension for their activities and finances; their continued existence is dependent on Cooperative Extension’s authorization and oversight.
The University of Wisconsin Extension, Cooperative Extension operates on a July 1-June 30 fiscal year. Therefore, it is
recommended that all 4-H groups transition immediately to this new fiscal year. We will be auditing and reporting a shortened fiscal year (January 1, 2011 – June 30, 2011) within the upcoming months. The process to accomplish this is outlined in the attached document.
I know that this means a change in your schedule as a club/project and in your responsibilities as a Club
Organizational Leader or Project Leader. I continue to value the service you provide. Without your dedication the 4-H members would not have the amazing opportunities they currently have. Let’s work through this change together to make it a smooth transition for all 4-H clubs, Leaders Association and chartered county wide projects in Adams
County.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Swensen, 4-H Youth Development Agent
University of Wisconsin, U. S. Department of Agriculture and Wisconsin counties cooperating. UW-Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming including Title IX and ADA.