4-H’ers learn job, leadership skills at Casey’s

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. — Terre Haute 4-H members got a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a Casey’s store — and it’s more than just stocking shelves.

As part of a collaboration between Casey’s and the National 4-H Council, students explored the range of careers and skills involved in store operations, from food service and merchandising to marketing, public relations and the data behind product placement.

For Jocelyn, the experience connected directly to a career she is already considering.

“I never really thought about the public relations side of Casey’s before,” she said. “They do a good job at being a positive influence in the community and making sure they are there for the consumer.”

Gracelyn said she was surprised by how much goes on behind the scenes to determine what customers see in the store.

“There’s a lot of thought about which items they have and why they place items where they do,” she said. “You have to look at statistics and numbers, more than what a customer sees.”

The experience is part of an effort to give young people hands-on exposure to different careers while helping them practice skills they’re already developing through 4-H.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with 4-H and invite our guests to join us in supporting programs that help young people build confidence, discover new interests and develop skills that will serve them wherever their futures take them,” said Katie Petru, Casey’s director of PR, communications and community.

Terre Haute was one of several cities in the region gaining leadership skills through the partnership.

To learn more about the partnership, visit 4-h.org/caseyspizza.