Show-Me 4-H Wares: A young entrepreneur profile

January 2008

In the heat of the 2007 Missouri State Fair, 4-H unveiled a new opportunity for young entrepreneurs called Show-Me 4-H Wares.  Youth giving working demonstrations at the fair were invited to display their items in the Mizzou Central building, where fairgoers could place orders to buy their products. One success story came from a young entrepreneur named Kaleena Logan. Kaleena is in her second year of 4-H. She has been crocheting for two years under the tutelage of her mother Sharon, a 4-H volunteer, who inspired her to learn the craft.

Kaleena had to practice for quite a while to refine her new skill. But now she has made a poncho, headband, flip-flops, pot holder, hair scrunchie, slippers and dish cloths. Kaleena’s mother saw the “Show-Me Wares” announcement in a county 4-H newsletter and encouraged Kaleena to try selling some of her projects.

Kaleena was nervous the day she presented her crochet demonstration at the fair, but she credits the experience for helping her practice being comfortable in front of people. She decided to make dish cloths for her sales display since she was confident of their durability. At the end of the fair, Kaleena had received orders for 14 dish cloths. She has saved the money she’s made so far and is considering selling her items in the future.

The experience also resulted in a surprise! Kaleena received a Junior Entrepreneur award at the county recognition.  Kaleena credits her parents, club leader Debbie Dieckman and Show-Me 4-H Wares organizers for giving her the opportunity to showcase and sell her crafts at the fair.

Article by Adam Loftin and Steve Henness