Jackson County Has A New 4H Agent

Neylan Spivey is the new 4H agent for Jackson County.

Spivey said the 4H program is a great opportunity for kids to learn leadership skills, and do community service. He said that he wants to teach young people valuable life skills and that the program is about more than just agriculture.

“The biggest goal that I have for the 4H program in Jackson County is to grow the program,” Spivey said. “Get kids involved and try to get them to where they understand that 4H ain’t just about ag, its about community service, leadership, and personal growth.”

Spivey said he first got involved in 4H when he was a part of the program as a child in elementary school. He said he realized he wanted to pursue a career in 4H while attending Tennessee Tech.

“When I went to Tech and I changed Majors to agriculture, I was looking into doing extension jobs or working with UT in some form or fashion,” Spivey said. “And three weeks ago I came to this job.”

Spivey said youth development is important to him because he wants to make sure the next generation has the skills and ability to be productive members of society.

“A lot of people my age and older may not be able to do everything that we do now when we’re older,” Spivey said. “And 4H gives these kids a chance to grow themselves where they can take over those positions.