Pictou County woman wins 4H award.

Ruby Mackenzie started volunteering with 4-H for the same reason many people do — her daughter joined the program. But unlike many others, she never stopped.

After around 15 years, she’s had the chance to be involved with various levels of the organization and has helped lead everything from crafts and cake decorating to outdoorsman programs.

“Some of it I know nothing about, but that doesn’t stop me from trying to volunteer,” she said.

In addition to her involvement on the local level, Mackenzie just finished her second term on the board of directors for 4-H Nova Scotia, where she served as an advisor to the Members’ Voice Committee and Eastern Region director. Currently, she serves on the Pictou County council as vicepresident and will become President in November.

For her efforts, the Pictou County woman was recently recognized by 4-H Nova Scotia as one of four Friend of 4-H Award winners.

The Friend of 4-H Award recognizes recipients who have supported 4-H significantly over the years and whose contributions have bettered the 4-H program in Nova Scotia.

While she said she is honoured to have received the award from 4-H, she said many leaders have worked tirelessly for generations.

“I have worked with some of the best leaders. I really accept this award on their behalf. I wouldn’t be who I am if it wasn’t for the great leadership that I have worked under and mentored under and worked with because that’s what makes you a great leader is being able to work with other great leaders.”

Through her board roles, she has been involved with the process of restructuring the way 4-H runs.

Mackenzie said she’s enjoyed being part of the various levels, but what she loves most in all that she does is working with the members.

“I’m a very member-centred leader,” Mackenzie said. “When I sit, whether at the council table or the board table, every decision that I was asked to make, my focus is always, how does this affect my members?”

She also loves being able to watch youth grow and improve. She gets great joy when she sees these young people grow up and get good jobs, partly because of the positive impact 4-H had on their lives.

“For me, it’s the joy of what I get out of it. That’s what keeps me moving forward.”