The 2013 Joy Sparks Award recipient, Mary Argo, is a former 4-H leader, link member and outstanding supporter of Delaware 4-H. She has worked for the University of DE for 23 years, the last 18 as Sussex County 4-H Agent.
One of Mary’s signature events was coordinating the annual 4-H Spring Farm Tours, inviting area school children to the Hopkins’ family Dairy, Green Acres Farm, in Lewes. Through this valuable partnership, an average of 1,500 youth each year discovered and participated in an authentic agricultural experience – oftentimes, receiving their first introduction to diverse Extension programs. With the help of Carvel REC farm guys, all of her Extension colleagues, tens of thousands of young students were reached through this one event alone. Mary believes in the value of personal visits and built many strong community relationships throughout her career. Fridays with 4-H, at La Casita Afterschool Program in Georgetown, impacted hundreds of Latino youth. This outreach was the direct result of Mary’s networking and personal touch in her community.
All who know Mary never fail to mention her tireless work ethic, positive outlook, and enthusiastic dedication to make 4-H available to every child in Delaware. She never missed an opportunity to shine the spotlight on an accomplishment of a 4-H youth member or adult volunteer. Mary Argo has practiced what she preached – retirement will not dampen what has grown into a strong family 4-H commitment and tradition. At age 10, Mary became a member of Broadkill Kook Kats 4-H club, with her mother Frances as leader. Mary also served as organizational leader of the same club for 12 years. In 1986, she was inducted to the prestigious 4-H alumni organization, the Sussex 4-H Order of the Link, whose members plan and support many 4-H events. Two of Mary’s daughters are Delaware 4-H leaders and 10 of her 11 grandchildren are enrolled in Delaware 4-H. Please join me in thanking Mary for her dedicated career and time with Sussex County 4-H. There is little doubt that Mary will continue to inspire “To Make the Best Better.
For more photos view the Achievement Night photo album