Schleich USA, manufacturer of animal characters and playsets, announced a year-long partnership with National 4-H Council, the nation’s largest youth development organization, reaching six million youth across all 50 states and territories. To kick off the partnership, Schleich and 4-H are announcing the start of the “Create Your Story” contest. The contest calls on Schleich fans, 4-H members, and kids everywhere to contribute their imaginations and storytelling abilities to create a story starring Schleich characters. In addition to the contest, Schleich will be introducing multiple product offerings online and at retail, proceeds from which will benefit 4-H youth.
This National Storytelling Day (April 27), Schleich and 4-H are inviting kids to submit their story, which starts at createyourstorywith4H.com. Schleich has started the story already, and what happens next is up to kids — they can write the next part, snap a photo to share what comes next, shoot a video, draw a picture, and more. Ten stories will be chosen for public voting, and the top two will be included in an interactive “create your own adventure” video premiering this fall. There will be three opportunities for kids to contribute their stories between May and August.
“At Schleich we know that kids are natural storytellers. And when their imaginations and creativity are nurtured through community, mentorship, and education, they become tomorrow’s out-of-the-box thinkers and problem solvers,” said Annie Laurie Zomermaand, co-managing director, Schleich USA. “In 4-H, we’ve found the perfect partner to help us follow up the story-inspiring magic of Schleich with this type of leadership.”
“For over 100 years, 4-H has believed in the power of young people, their ability to lead and improve the world. Our partnership with Schleich will help unlock the imagination and epic stories ready to be shared by our young leaders,” said Ivan Heredia, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, National 4-H Council. “This national platform will spark a passion for creativity creating endless possibilities that empower young minds and inspire fun.”
Schleich fans will also be able to grow their collections while supporting 4-H throughout 2021. A series of new character bundles from Schleich and 4-H will each include a story starter, carrying pouch, and a set of characters ready for adventure. A percentage from every 4-H-inspired bundle purchased on Schleich’s website will be donated to 4-H to support programming benefitting 4-H youth and their local communities. Additionally, an exclusive display at select bricks-and-mortar retailers including Orscheln Farm and Home, Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply, and Coastal Farm & Home will direct $0.50 to 4-H for each character purchased.
For more information about the “Create Your Story” contest, as well as Schleich’s partnership with 4-H, visit createyourstorywith4h.com. The progress of the contest and the latest details about the partnership can also be followed on Schleich’s social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.