Redwood Acres executive director recognized by Humboldt County Office of Education for youth focus

The Humboldt County Office of Education (HCOE) recently recognized Redwood Acres and Executive Director Cindy Bedingfield as an official “Rising Stars Partner” for their support of the Rising Stars Foundation’s Industrial Technology Fair (ITF).

“We were very pleased to be able to recognize Cindy and Redwood Acres for their wonderful focus on our community’s talented youth,” said Colleen Toste, Managing Director of the Rising Stars Foundation. “Because the Foundation no longer receives federal funding, community support is vital, which is why we were delighted and appreciative when Redwood Acres invited our middle and high school students to be part of the Fair.”

According to Bedingfield, Redwood Acres offered to host the student technology expo as part of an increased emphasis on supporting local youth activities.  The organization provided the Home Ec Building at no cost during the annual fair, providing the youth with a built-in audience of thousands.  During the event, approximately two hundred students presented hundreds of projects in categories such as wood, metal, drafting, and machinery.  Most projects were individually crafted, like furniture, cutting boards, and bowls, but many student groups also worked together to create trailers, folding chairs, and BBQ grills.

“Prior to this year, the (ITF) has been at Bayshore Mall but the event was unmanned, didn’t offer significant interaction with the community or the opportunity for students to sell their products,” noted Toste.  “This new venue was a resounding success on all levels. Teachers and students had the opportunity to share their projects directly with the community, fairgoers had the pleasure of viewing the kids’ craftsmanship, and without exception, fairgoers walked out of the building overwhelmed and impressed with the quality of the students’ work.  Students gained confidence and skills regarding displays, pricing, and interaction with potential customers. During the fair, students sold nearly $3,000 of handcrafted merchandise, with one hundred percent of the proceeds going directly to the students.”

According to Bedingfield, approximately one hundred and fifty youth aged nine to nineteen also participated in the junior livestock sale, where they earned over $90,000 selling everything from rabbits and poultry to beef and swine.

“All these activities offer a wonderful opportunity for our youth to work hard and see the rewards,” Bedingfield observed. “Many use their proceeds to help fund a college education, purchase first cars or even help them save to buy a house.  Our focus on youth also gives the community a chance to see how poised, confident, productive and professional our young people can be and we plan to increase our focus on youth moving forward.”

For more information, visit www.redwoodacres.com.