Name: Slade Erdman
Club: Outram-Madigan 4-H Beef Club
Age: 16
Years in 4-H: Seven
Age group: Senior
Slade Erdman joined the Outram-Madigan 4-H Beef Club through the encouragement of his parents, but he has remained part of the club because of all the things the organization has to offer.
Both of his parents were in 4-H when they were growing up, his sister is also in 4-H and some of his cousins have been involved.
"I've moved onto high levels of public speaking several times, including districts, and then regionals three times," said Erdman. "I've had opportunities to learn from many different people in the cattle industry, from feed lot owners to meat processors, marketing [people], public speakers and cattle sitters."
He has also been entered in the Rotary 4-H Regional Show and Sale, and said he has been fortunate to show quality cattle.
"They were all born and raised on our ranch. The sales have been a great way to learn how to market and sell my animals, and it gave me opportunities to speak with many different potential buyers," said Erdman, who is grateful for their generosity and support.
He has won a reserve champion award and has picked up firsts and seconds at the club level.
Erdman said he would recommend the Outram-Madigan Club, and 4-H in general, because raising an animal can be fun and rewarding. He has made friends with other kids his age.
"You learn to do things by doing things. It makes you responsible for another life in the case of beef 4-H. And 4-H also provides opportunities to learn things like parliamentary procedure, working together, public speaking and record keeping. It also offers leadership and mentorship skill and ability."
