4-H has been an active organization in Early since the early 1940’s. The Merry Melodies Girls Club and Early Birds Boys Club joined forces to become the Early Achievers 4-H Club in 1988. As the 4-H program changed to meet the needs of both rural and town youth, the club became better positioned to fulfill those needs here locally by merging. 4-H continues to teach young people many life skills, such as communications, citizenship, and leadership.

The club has been involved in many community service projects, including annual Christmas caroling and delivering goodie bags to many who live in Early. A big community service project completed by the club was the landscaping in front of the Community Building in downtown Early, as well as the restaurant.

The club has prided itself on many Sac County and Iowa State Fair award winning projects, 13 State 4-H Council members, 13 National 4-H Congress delegates and eight National 4-H Conference delegates in the last 25 years.

Former leaders included Mrs. Judy Hartsell, Mrs. Leona Schmitt, Eldon Cuthrell, Armin and Dawn Christiansen, Eugene and Sandi Weitzel, Richard and Jan Mason, Robin Wissink, Barb Dahm and Kurt and Laurie Kenny.

Current leaders are Steve and Barb Determan, Steve and Tracy Pickhinke, Nathan and Jamie Blum, Denise Pickhinke and Jennifer Movall, Christy Horan, and Toni McAleer.

2026 NEWS AND PICTURES

The Early Achievers 4-H Club has been committed to helping our community for many years.  Our journey to improve Third Street Park started by installing new basketball hoops to create a space where kids could gather, stay active, and build connections.  Next, we replaced the aging wooden benches and picnic tables to make the park more comfortable and welcoming for families.

     We have been inspired by a club member with special needs. This opened our eyes to inclusivity and moved us to install a large adaptive swing so that every child, regardless of ability, can experience the joy of play. To further support safety and accessibility, we added a poured-in-place rubber surface, ensuring the park is truly inclusive. 

     These park improvements are more than upgrades. They strengthen our community, embrace inclusivity, and create a place where every child can belong, have fun, and make lasting memories. Through this project, our members used their leadership, hearts, and hands to create something meaningful for the community.

Early Achievers, 2026