Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeff Connell.
Hi Jeff, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Born and raised in South Georgia. Was a full-time pastor for 35 years. Friend told me about the position at the 4-H Center and I was intrigued. Hired in February 2024. Love my job. They were in dire financial need when I arrived. Worked hard to rebuild relationships in community and with outside organizations. Worked hard to plan events for the 10 months outside camp. We are now in the process of a new growth attempting to build up to 18 new buildings in 3 phases.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Hard to start with. Getting easier as I understand the processes. Not a fundraiser so that part is tough. But I am relational which is what I think it will take.
“We’ve never done it that way before.” We are 60 years old and people don’t like change.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
65 years old. We serve about 2,000 students every summer in junior camp. Another 2,000 plus people the rest of the year through various events from quilters, scrapbookers, family reunions, political and social groups, agriculture groups, and churches.
We are tied to our roots but striving to reach new heights through new ways.
Still a place for families to come together and children to learn and have fun. And then come back to help serve.
We are the same as we have always been. Open year-round. Have lots of activities and places for groups to meet and build relationships.
We hired an Outdoor Adventure Specialist that guides hiking, biking, paddling, and fly fishing trips in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee
We just started an afterschool program called AgVentures and restarted JAM – Junior Appalachian Music.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Grew up on a farm. Working with my father and grandfather on the farm with crops and animals. Everything I did was attached to farm and church.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.swva4hcenter.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swva4hcenter
