Sumner County 4-H Announces Fall Programs, Quartermania Fundraiser

WELLINGTON, Kan. – Sumner County 4-H has announced several upcoming programs for fall 2025, including enrollment for new members and a fundraising event to support youth development activities.

The organization will hold its annual Quartermania fundraiser Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Raymond Frye Complex, 320 N Jefferson Ave. in Wellington. The event combines auction and raffle elements, with participants bidding on brand-new merchandise donated by local businesses and vendors.

Doors open at 5 p.m., with meals beginning at 5:30 p.m. for $5 per plate. The auction starts at 6 p.m. Paddle costs are $5 each or three for $12, with bids starting at 25 cents. The menu includes chili, soup and cinnamon rolls.

"Quartermania is a cross between an auction and a raffle where people 'bid' to win a product/prize of brand new goods donated from local businesses and various home business vendors participating in the event," according to event materials.

Proceeds support the 4-H Development Fund, which helps send youth to county camps and leadership events such as Discovery Days and leadership forums. The organization's goal is to raise enough funds so camp fees can be paid in full.

Gavin Beesley, Sumner County 4-H Youth Development Agent, said K-State Research and Extension is seeking vendors for the fundraiser. Vendor space and table rental is available for a $20 donation. Vendors can auction two items and donate an auction item to support 4-H.

"4-H empowers youth to be active in their schools, families, and communities," Beesley said. "By building on their strengths and encouraging involvement, 4-H helps young people develop lifelong skills and grow into caring, capable leaders."

The organization serves approximately 130 youth in the Sumner County area through various projects focused on leadership and citizenship development.

Separately, 4-H enrollment for 2025 opens Oct. 1. The registration fee is $15 per youth member, though Cloverbud enrollments are free for ages 5-6. Age eligibility depends on members' age as of Jan. 1 of the current year.

Enrollment closes Nov. 14 for returning members. Interested families can register online at https://v2.4honline.com/#/user/sign-in or contact the Sumner County Extension Office at sucoext@gmail.com or 620-326-7477.

For vendor information regarding the Quartermania fundraiser, contact the Sumner County Extension Office at 320 N Jefferson Ave., Wellington, KS 67152, no later than Oct. 1.