This letter goes on our Extension letterhead – along with an attached list of 4-H members in that legislator’s district who qualified for ESE and a template letter.

Dear Senator xxx or Representative xxx,

I thought you might be interested in knowing about the recent accomplishments of some of the youth in in your district—the 4-H members who have earned a spot on New Hampshire’s delegation to the annual Eastern State Exposition (The Big E). In September, they will travel to Springfield, Massachusetts, to represent our state, competing against 4-H members from all across New England in animal and other events.

For 4-H members, this is a very important milestone.

In the event you would like to reach out to them, I have enclosed a congratulatory letter template and the names and addresses of the youth in your district who were named to the New Hampshire Eastern State’s team.I believe a letter from you is something they would likely remember for quite some time.

The New Hampshire 4-H program, which is administered by UNH Cooperative Extension, delivers youth development activities and education in topics as diverse as rocketry, animal science, citizenship, and healthy living. The Eastern States Exhibition is one of many opportunities youth have to take their projects to higher levels of expertise and competition, which is an important component of 4-H.

Thank you very much for your support and for helping us recognize our youth.

Sincerely,

UNH Cooperative Extension

Youth qualifying for Eastern States Exposition

Only include youth on this list from the legislator’s district. Taking the time to separate out just those from a district (instead of including the whole list for your county) will greatly increase the likelihood the representative will take the time to send the letter.

Chris Clover
123 Main Street
Nottingham, NH 03230

[CONGRATULATORY LETTER TEMPLATE]

Dear (name),

I would like to congratulate you on your accomplishments within the 4-H program in New Hampshire— particularly on earning a spot on the team that will represent New Hampshire at the upcoming Eastern States Exposition in Springfield, Massachusetts.

I realize this honor is one that not all 4-H members achieve during their time in 4-H, and I applaud your hard work and perseverance. The 4-H program gives young people the chance to build skills in topics of interest and helps build independence, leadership, and a strong sense of community. I know these skills will serve you well in life, and I wish you the very best in your future endeavors.

I hope you have a wonderful experience at Eastern States.I look forward to hearing about your future accomplishments.

Sincerely,

(Legislator’s signature block)