Weber County 4-H Receives Gift to Help Expand Youth Opportunities in Ogden School District

The Utah State University Extension Weber County 4-H program recently received a donation of more than $700,000 from the Ron and Betty Johnson Trust. The contribution will establish an endowment dedicated to expanding 4-H opportunities for youth in the Ogden School District.

Betty Lalli Johnson, who grew up in Ogden, and her husband, Ron, a Northern California native, married in Ogden in 1958. They have devoted their lives to supporting community organizations that uplift youth. Ron passed away 20 years ago, but Betty has continued their legacy. In her later years, she developed a deep appreciation for 4-H, frequently attending events and admiring the confidence, kindness and enthusiasm of its members.

Although Johnson did not have the opportunity to participate in 4-H as a young person, she was inspired by the impact it had on others. Her wish is to ensure that more youth — especially those in urban settings — can benefit from the learning, growth and sense of belonging that 4-H provides.

“This is one of the largest donations ever given to a county 4-H program in Utah,” said David Widdison, USU Extension Weber County program coordinator. “We are deeply grateful for Betty’s vision and generosity. This endowment will help extend the reach of 4-H programs and create lasting opportunities for youth across our community.”