Posted on August 22, 2022 at 1:13 PM by Cade Cameron
Wayne County is pleased to recognize Joyce Lash as the 2022 inductee into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame. Joyce was not a 4-H member as a youth. Her first connection to 4-H happened when her son became a member of the local township club. Several years later, Joyce agreed to become the club’s leader. Becoming a club leader opened the door for Joyce’s long and varied relationship with 4-H and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
In addition to serving as a leader of the large and active Warren Willpower Club, Joyce also became a Wayne County Fair volunteer doing a variety of tasks. When she retired as a club leader, Joyce continued supporting the 4-H program and the Wayne County Fair with her time, talent, and resources. For example, when several leaders and parents asked if someone would teach some young members basic sewing skills, Joyce was asked, and once again she said, “yes.” She planned and led a county-wide beginners sewing workshop.
Joyce made a midlife career change when she left her position as a family and consumer science teacher and joined Iowa State University Extension and Outreach as a family resource management field specialist. Through her Extension work Joyce took the lead in implementing several successful projects that continue to benefit residents of Wayne County and the southern Iowa region. One example is the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. VITA provides free tax return preparation for qualified payers. Between 100 and 200 local residents take advantage of this service annually. Joyce is continuing to volunteer with VITA program.
Joyce also initiated discussions that ultimately resulted in the formation of the non-profit Chariton Valley Regional House Trust Fund. This organization’s mission is to provide safe and affordable housing to low and moderate-income residents. It provides valuable resources to communities in upgrading and expanding housing resources. Joyce has always had a passion for life skills and teaching- her mentorship and volunteerism is so appreciated by her community.
Both Joyce and her husband Loris are now retired and living on the Lash family farm. They have two children, Michael and Johanna and four grandchildren. Wayne County is honored to nominate her for her outstanding service to the community and especially the youth.
