Wanks honored as 'Friends of Extension'

That person is then nominated at the state level with the Indiana Extension Educator’s Association.

"This is a high honor and we are very pleased to recognize a person for this honor," said Carolyn Hildenbrandt, Purdue Extension Educator, Pulaski County.

A Friend of Extension is:

a person known well and held in high regard in the community.
a person committed to the values and mission of the Extension program.
a person dedicated to a cause for Extension, in this case betterment of the lives of youth in Pulaski County.
a person who generously gives assistance and support.

The Wanks have raised four sons, two of whom were 10-year 4-H members and one who is a current member. This couple is very active in community service and especially 4-H. During the past two years Neva has served as the superintendent for the 4-H building before, during, and after the fair. Not only have they spearheaded the refurbishing of the building they oversee the building during the fair making sure volunteers show up for their assigned shifts and opening and closing the building each day.

"If you ever wonder how that building looks so good the opening day of fair all you need to do is show up there a couple of weeks prior to the fair and you will see Sam and Neva working away, painting, sweeping, washing, and doing whatever necessary to ensure our 4-H kids have a great facility to show off their projects," Mrs. Hildebrandt said. "I want to say at this point that you will also see their son Walker there doing whatever needs to be done. They have served as 4-H leaders for Harrison Township for 14 years and both are members of the Pulaski County 4-H Council and Neva is the current treasurer of the council."

Their dedication extends into other areas of our community through their endless hours of service to the Ladies of Charity at the Good Samaritan Store. Here they work sorting, cleaning, and repairing donations. Sam also serves as the treasurer of the Knights of Columbus.