Gifts at Work

Nelson Trickey of Columbia, Mo., retired from University of Missouri Extension in 1985, but he has never stopped working for the youth development program he devoted his career to building.

Trickey was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in honor of his dedication to Missouri’s young people both on the job and off.

Trickey retired from the University after 36 years in which he started as a county youth agent and eventually served as assistant state 4-H director.

Known for telling others “I’d rather wear out than rust out,” Trickey has spent his retirement years as a volunteer fundraiser for the American Cancer Society and the Missouri 4-H Foundation.

The Columbia, Missouri, resident has raised more than $1 million for the 4-H Foundation, which provides scholarships, funds for community service projects conducted by local 4-H clubs, and supports statewide activities and events that help young people become competent members of society.

The National 4-H Hall of Fame was established in 2002 as part of the organization's centennial celebration. Trickey joins department store magnate J.C. Penney and former 4-H director Frank Graham of Columbia as Missouri inductees into the Hall of Fame.