Fifty years of heart and voluntarism.
That’s the legacy of Mary Bridges, a local treasure in the Pilot Point community and across the state, who was recognized for her 50 years of service in 4-H.
“I've just been so fortunate to have touched so many lives, so many parents that have allowed me to help their children and guide and direct them, and gain their confidence,” Bridges said. “A lot of times, children won't talk, and you can tell I talk.”
Throughout the decades, she has served in many positions as a 4-H leader and club manager and in some unofficial roles as a friend, confidant and supporter.
Bridges shared that she loves to encourage the youth to get involved with 4-H as well as any organization that will promote an environment to want to learn, grow and participate in community service.
Her passion for helping others and volunteerism has been ingrained in her and her family for generations.
“Starting with my grandfather when he came from England in the 1800s, and then my brother was also an extension agent,” Bridges said. “My dad was in all organizations—sheep and goat raisers, San Antonio Livestock Show, directors and secretary and treasurers of many, many organizations. So, it's just something that I grew up doing and I love to do it.”
She decided to step down to be there for her husband in his time of need, but Bridges reassured that if anyone needs her, she is just a phone call away.
“If a child's going to call and ask me for help, they're going to get it,” Bridges said. “I don't care where they're from. If they're going to compete against my children, that's OK. If you want help, we’ll see what we can do to help you. That’s just the way I was raised.”
Bridges was a 4-H member herself for 12 years, and then, once her first child was old enough to participate at age 9, she got back involved in the 4-H world.
Even after her children aged out of 4-H youth, she still felt inclined to help.
“I just wanted to be there,” Bridges said. “I love the kids, and I wanted to help them grow and learn as much as they could through 4-H to be able to be our future leaders.”
She estimates that, for the Texas 4-H Record Book, she helped 50 kids reach the state level or win, including her own children.
“It's just been a wonderful experience, and I've just been so blessed to be able to touch thousands and thousands throughout the state,” Bridges said.
In her time, she has received the Texas 4-H Salute to Excellence Award and the Texas 4-H Leader Legacy Award, along with other recognitions for her contributions.
“Our motto is to make the best better, and Mary's definitely one of those,” County Extension Agent Steven Barringer said. “She sees the best in others, even if we don’t see it, and she helps everyone expand on that.”
He, along with a few 4-H volunteers who have worked closely with Bridges, organized the surprise and the reception that followed, including Marisa Pels, who will take over Bridges’ role.
The group also worked with the aide to the Denton County Commissioners Court to issue a proclamation recognizing Bridges and her 50 years of service.
“The warmth that I felt from all the people that were there was just wonderful,” Bridges said. “No words to really describe it.”
One of the attendees was Lu-Ann Moore Kubala, who met Bridges as a 4-H agent in Denton County between 1980 and 1985.
Kubala was glad to see her friend be recognized for the impact she’s had.
“[She] has been instrumental for 50 years, helping lots and lots of kids from all over Denton County, not only in the leadership role, but also in training them to help them get scholarships,” Kubala said.
In the five years that Barringer has lived in Texas, he has worked closely with Bridges, who served as the leader of the Pilot Point 4-H Club.
“Mary really cares about others; she often sees the potential, not only in our 4-H kids but other adults as well, and she encourages and motivates people to step outside of her comfort zone and try something new,” Barringer said.
He noted that during the ceremony, one of the commissioners said the turnout for the proclamation was among the largest they had ever seen at Commissioners Court.
“Her legacy will live on even though she's not officially a volunteer anymore, and the things that she taught all of us and that she's taught the 4-H members, it'll carry on as we continue to teach others,” Barringer said.
