Sharps Chapel Elementary School has become the first—and smallest—school in the county to fill a 5-gallon bucket with pop-top tabs this year. Each year, 4-H’ers in Union County Elementary Schools collect aluminum can tabs as part of an ongoing community service project. The tabs are recycled, and this year all proceeds are donated to Fresh Wagon, a local food distribution service dedicated to providing fresh local fruits, vegetables, and other foods to community members who are in need of these items!

Through the project, students learn the importance of recycling and are encouraged to recycle entire aluminum cans—not just the tabs. They also gain a deeper understanding of Fresh Wagon’s mission and the value of caring for others in their own community. The lessons of “community” and giving back are also reinforced throughout the year. Older students in grades 6–12 are invited to join the 4-H Honor Club, where they can participate in a wide range of additional service projects like this one!

Each elementary school is provided with a receptacle to collect tabs, and 4-H staff were pleased to see full participation at November’s meetings. Paulette Elementary and Luttrell Elementary have even set ambitious goals to exceed one full bucket by the time they return to school in January.

4-H extends sincere appreciation to the students, teachers, staff members, school 4-H officers, and especially the Community Service Officers who help lead these efforts. The project will continue throughout the school year, and students are already developing new ways to serve their communities.

Community members can also help 4th- and 5th-grade 4-H’ers reach their tab-collection goals. Pop-top tabs may be dropped off at any elementary school or at the Union County Extension Office. The 4-H community, Fresh Wagon, and the families served through its distribution programs all thank you for supporting this meaningful project.