Success Stories By MajorProgram FY2018Jul 1, 2017 - Jun 30, 2018





Lyon County 4-H Leader Uses Learned Skills

Author: Wanda Paris

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Things got off to a rough start for the newly certified 4-H horse club leader in Lyon County.  Growing up in the 4-H horse program in another state where expectations were different, this new leader had a hard time adjusting to the policies and procedures of the Kentucky 4-H Horse Program.  When members and parents became confused and came to the agent for help, it became evident that a face-to-face meeting was important.  The new leader felt she had been doing everything in an ac

Full Story

D4 Volunteer Leader's Academy

Author: Leslie Bullock

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

This was the second year after my completion of AVAA I worked with my District to plan and implement a training for our 4-H volunteers to earn education, answer questions and Livestock and Horse leaders to gain recertification hours. The committee that worked to make this event happen was Kim Ragland, Alison Johnson, Kristen Kirkland, and myself. This event had 35 volunteers, instructors and specialists from District 4 in attendance. We held 6 workshops ranging from Horse, Livestock, Working wit

Full Story

4-H Online Orientation for Volunteers

Author: Leslie Bullock

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Volunteers that clearly understand their service role and their relationship to the organization they are serving are more effective than those who do not. It is difficult for volunteers to develop an understanding of the program they are delivering, their relationship to the organization and the University of Kentucky without an informative, educational orientation program. While orientation has long been required for all Extension volunteers, few actually receive the orientation necessary for

Full Story

4-H School Clubs

Author: Christopher Boyd

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

The Greenup County Extension Council and the 4-H Council have identified enriching leadership skills as a priority in our community development.Whether for youth or adults, having good leadership attributes and abilities is an asset to being successful.After discussing this topic with our councils, the Greenup County Extension Service has decided that focusing on the development of more 4-H school clubs would be a good way to develop leaders with our county youth.  After contacting our loca

Full Story

Making 4-H Camp More Affordable

Author: Rhonda Jewell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Camp4-H Camp provides an opportunity for youth to develop essential life skills that help them build character, develop a sense of independence, and become responsible individuals. There are many life lessons to be learned at camp from learning to respect others, money management, and responsibility for oneself to name a few. According to the American Camping Association, child development professionals recognize camping experiences as a valuable tool in helping children mature socially, emo

Full Story

Discovering the Adventures of 4-H: CloverBud Style

Author: Mackenzie Pogue

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H has traditionally been open to youth ages 9-18 years old. Within recent years, Muhlenberg County 4-H has created an opportunity for youth ages 5-8 years old called CloverBuds. This summer we held our second 4-H CloverBud Day Camp where fifty-five youth attended the Camp at the UK Extension Office. The youth were led through a series of engaging classes throughout Paradise Park by teen leaders. The day was made possible by the 30 plus volunteers that taught classes, served as group leaders, a

Full Story

Community service project for teens

Author: Dora Centers

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

      The Knott County Extension council identified youth participating in community service projects and participating in anything positive was a need for our county. A collaborative effort between the US Army Core of Engineers at Carr Fork Lake, Knott Co Central FFA and Knott Co 4H provided a community service project opportunity for these youth.  Students have dedicated a total of 27 duck boxes over the past two years.  This year the duck boxes were entered in the Kno

Full Story

Building Strong Relationships

Author: Joe Maynard

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Sometimes it can be hard for any outside group to get classroom time at schools. This is no different for 4-H. Even after 13 years of forming relationships in the community and with schools it can still be tough to work in time for extra educational programming. The need to find classroom time has resulted in a great relationship between 4-H and the Family Resource Centers in every school for many years. The opportunity to have an agency that works within the school system to schedule for 4-H is

Full Story

Wool Festival

Author: Shelley Meyer

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H is a volunteer based organization that utilizes funds from donors, sponsors and fundraisers to offer copious amounts of programing, clubs and activities to youth at the most affordable prices possible.  Pendleton County 4-H has been blessed to contract with the Kentucky Wool Festival to sell drinks for the event.  It takes numerous hands to make this run efficiently given the quantity of folks this festival brings in. This year, the wool festival brought in nearly 28,000 indiv

Full Story

Appalachian Heritage Program 2017

Author: Vicki Boggs

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

~~Appalachian Heritage Program Appalachia refers to a specific ethnic group, the descendants of early settlers in the mountains and their unique American culture. This culture is both real and functioning being revealed through its traditional arts and crafts, music, traditional foods, its customs, heritage and beliefs. Appalachia itself is a mixture of all things Appalachian. The Appalachian culture we witness today is one that has been preserved mostly by families and churches. Missi

Full Story

Extension Field Day Increases Awareness of Agriculture and Extension Programming

Author: Regina Browning

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Marketing Extension and educating the public about the importance of agriculture are topics that concern members of the Shelby County Extension Council.  A committee of council members and a Shelby County Extension Intern planned a field day to address those concerns.  The 2017 Shelby County Cooperative Extension Field Day was an enormous success. Nearly 305 people attended despite the less than desirable hot weather. It was held at Mulberry Orchard, a local agribusiness and agritouris

Full Story

Summer Day Camp Series

Author: Natasha Robinson

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Studies have shown that nearly 50% of the state of Kentucky's families fall at or below the federal poverty line.  Within that economic distress in families, there is often a prevalence of mental health issues, developmental & intellectual disabilities and possibly chemical dependency with youth 18 and under.  Cumberland River Comprehensive Care Center provides summer programming within the Family Resource Centers at Whitley County Schools during the summer months.  In 201

Full Story

4-H'ers Showcase Project Work through Fair Exhibits

Author: Kelsey Chadwick

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Carlisle County 4-H'ers showed off at this year's county and state fairs. The fair gives 4-H'ers the opportunity to showcase all the hard work they have completed in 4-H all year long in the seven curriculum areas of 4-H programming: Health, Family & Consumer Sciences, Leadership, Communication & Expressive Arts, Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Science, Engineering, & Technology. It also gives the public a chance to see what 4-H is all about as they attend other event

Full Story

4-H Camp Promotes Relationships with Caring Adults

Author: Kelsey Chadwick

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Research has proven that youth benefit from positive relationships with caring adults. According to the Interagency Working Group on Youth Programs, youth who have mentors typically have "increased high school graduation rates, lower high school dropout rates, and healthier relationships and lifestyle choices". 4-H Camp provides campers aged 8-15 such opportunities to be mentored and nurtured by caring cabin leaders, class instructors, teen volunteers, and camp staff members in hopes t

Full Story

Girls Discover and Plant Spring Flowering Bulbs in the Girls Inc. Landscape

Author: Annette Heisdorffer

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Gardening benefits youth through the application of knowledge gained in math and science according to Dun Munn from the Michigan State University Extension.  In addition, gardening provides moderate exercise.  The Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service partnered with Girls Inc. to teach gardening skills that can be used throughout life to the girls.  The girls in this program have limited access to gardening locations.  In the area at the Girls Inc. building where garde

Full Story

New volunteer orientation

Author: Diane Kelley

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

The U.K. Cooperative Extension Service and the Kenton County Client Protection committee plan and execute the new volunteer orientation sessions for new and interested adult volunteers in Kenton County.  Cooperative Extension volunteers work independently with youth and adults in our community and provide opportunities for individuals to gain experience in decision making, responsibility, leadership, and project skills.  The former 4-H Youth Protection committee and current CES Client

Full Story

Safety Day

Author: Trent Adkins

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

On October 12th Pulaski County 4-H hosted its first Safety Day. Over 690 eighth grade students from the northern and southern middle schools were in attendance. Students visited eight stations where they learned about topics ranging from livestock, electrical, tractor, wildlife, and ATV safety, to first aid, and drug and alcohol prevention. We worked with several community partners to put together the safety day, the local EMS and Sheriff’s department were there to teach the students, as w

Full Story

Success in Communications

Author: Paula Jerrell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Clubs have begun in Ballard County Schools for the new year.  The 5th grade clubs focus on communications.  We also relate communications to leadership.  We learn about one way communication, two way communication, body language, eye contact, shaking hands, giving specific directions and learn about our own qualities with Who Am I? and an acrostic poem about their own personalities.  Our materials talk about learning about yourself before you can understand others.  

Full Story

Youth learn about the American Business System through APES

Author: Rebecca Hill

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Being college and career ready is a major charge of the Marion County Public School System so the Marion County 4-H Program partnered with Marion County Family Resource Center Directors, Inter County Energy, Central KY Ag Credit and local business people to restart the American Private Enterprise Systems program in Marion County.  During the two day program youth heard from a variety of local business leaders about different aspects of the American Business system.  At the conclusion o

Full Story

4-H Camp & 4-H Camp Scholarship Fund

Author: Meagan Klee

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Camp provides the opportunity for youth to experience time away from home, meet new people, and learn life skills. The youth attending 4-H Camp participate in activities that focus on teamwork, physical activity, and personal development.In Casey County, due to a low household income, a large percentage of students qualify for free or reduce lunch. This can make it extremely difficult for families to pay for their children to attend 4-H Camp. As the Casey County 4-H program grows, so does th

Full Story

4-H Day Camp

Author: Alexandria Brasher

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

This summer Henderson County 4-H hosted a three day, day camp at the Henderson County Extension Office. During this day camp youth were able to create projects from the fair, complete physical activity, and make new friends. The group of youth learned from the photography curriculum and then visited Audubon State Park. Youth also learned about terrariums and dessert dish gardens from a Henderson County Master Gardner, the master gardener spoke well of the youth saying they learned a lot from the

Full Story

4-H Project success demonstrates knowledge.

Author: Lloyd Saylor

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

continued growth and development of the Butler Co. Fair is astounding. The added success our youth are having at the KY State Fair is a direct reflection of this event. The original Butler County Fair ended in 1971.. Re-starting and rebuilding the fair has been a challenge worth the effort.   After 7 years we are now having over 500 4-H project entries 200-300 open entries, 40+ head of livestock showed and presented by 4-H, FFA, and Novice entrants. The Butler Co. Catfish Festival

Full Story

Primary and Elementary Youth Learn Career Opportunities

Author: Tyrone Gentry

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

A young child may have many dreams of their future careers. These dream jobs tend to be related to jobs of family members or positions associated with mainstream media enjoyed by the youth.  To expand youth's awareness, Green County 4-H includes career awareness in programs with their 4-H Cloverbuds.  Cloverbuds target youth younger than nine years of age and provides learning activities with caring adults open to all youth and families. Activities include learning about plants and

Full Story

4-H Festival & Extension Expo

Author: Bonita Jolly

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

     In an effort to create an awareness and expand the knowledge of the county 4-H program and other programs offered through the county extension service the first 4-H Festival and Extension Expo was held.  4-H program assistant worked with 4-H council and project club leaders along with 4-Hers to set up various games so that youth and their families could walk around and interact with 4-Hers in the different program areas.     4-Hers in the various project c

Full Story

4-H Clover College Afterschool Program Provides Opportunity

Author: Kelsey Chadwick

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Clover College Afterschool Program Provides Opportunity

According to Afterschool Alliance, afterschool programs improve attendance, classroom engagement, and academic performance; decrease disciplinary incidents; and help close the achievement gap among participating youth (Afterschool Alliance, 2017). In Carlisle County, there is not an existing afterschool program in place aside from school-sponsored extracurricular activities. Carlisle County 4-H utilizes 4-H programming as a way to offer afterschool engagement in this rural community by holding p

Full Story

4-H Summer Camp Leadership Opportunities

Author: Bonita Jolly

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

     The Kentucky 4-H summer camping program serves as a delivery mode to enhance positive youth development both during and after the camping experience.   One of the primary goals is to enrich the lives for all youth and adult participants while developing strong leadership and life skills that will be taken back to the communities in which they live.     From 2008 to 2017 Hardin County averaged 59 campers per year with 2010 and 2012 having the highest attend

Full Story

Teen Leadership Conferences Make A Difference

Author: Joyce Doyle

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Whether the event is Teen Summit, Issues Conference or Teen Conference, the impact that it has on the county 4-H program is so valuable.  Below you will find the statistics from this year's Issues Conference.The Kentucky 4-H Issues Conference was started in 1989. Since its inception, the conference schedule has changed, but the focus and goals have not. The goals of the KY 4-HIC are for Delegates to:Enrich their citizenship/civic engagement rolesEnhance their leadership skillsDevelop pu

Full Story

Continued: Importance of Teen Conferences to Develop Leadership Skills

Author: Joyce Doyle

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

In addition to Issues Conference, Teen Summit and Teen Conference, the Bootcamp Leadership Workshop was excellent. My teens learned so much and by attending this workshop, increased their communication skills and also increased their writing skills in order to better complete their achievement applications.  Both of my teens completed theri achievement applications and one received  her gold award for District 3 and the other received  her sliver award.Kentucky 4-H aims to engage

Full Story

Kentucky 4-H Summit

Author: Heather Coleman

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

~~The purpose of Kentucky 4-H Summit is to retain youth involvement in 4-H activities through the middle school years, along with empowering youth to become active 4-H leaders on the local and state levels. Objectives of Kentucky 4-H Summit are to provide youth from across the Commonwealth with the opportunity to develop leadership skills through acquiring new knowledge to take back and implement within their local communities. Youth have the opportunity to belong to a group of peers and expand

Full Story

Kentucky States' 4-H International Program

Author: Rachel Guidugli

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

As our society becomes more globalized it is imperative that as non-formal educators we provide opportunities for youth to engage in activities that will expand their worldview. In 2017, Kentucky 4-H hosted fourteen youth and one adult from the Japanese LABO Program through the States’ 4-H International Program. Japanese youth are paired with an American youth to spend four-weeks immersed in American culture. At the end of the four-week experience 100% of the Japanese youth reported that t

Full Story

Building Leaders through 4-H Achievement

Author: Chelsea Young

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

 4-H Youth Development is focused one major goal which is developing youth leadership skills.  According to Miller (1987) youth leadership is defined as the development of life skills necessary to perform leadership functions in real life.  This idea of building leadership skills is encompassed in the idea of achievement.  Youth respond positively when feel they feel that they have accomplished, or achieved, a goal in some manner.  Each year Owen County 4-H hosts a 4-H A

Full Story

Kentucky States’ 4-H International Program

Author: Mollie Tichenor

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

As our society becomes more globalized it is imperative that as non-formal educators we provide opportunities for youth to engage in activities that will expand their worldview. In 2017, Kentucky 4-H hosted fourteen youth and one adult from the Japanese LABO Program through the States’ 4-H International Program. Japanese youth are paired with an American youth to spend four-weeks immersed in American culture. At the end of the four-week experience 100% of the Japanese youth reported that t

Full Story

My Old Kentucky Home Field Day

Author: Natasha Robinson

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Whitley County 3rd grade teachers indicated that their students lacked a general knowledge of Kentucky heritage and general understanding of what their state had to offer.  Each students is required to take the Kentucky Performance Rating for Educational Progress (K-PREP) tests, starting in the 3rd grade.  These assessments measure many subjects including Reading, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies and Writing.  The 4-H Agent wanted to create a hands-on learning experience outsi

Full Story

Japanese LABO Program

Author: Lisa Hagman

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

As our society becomes more globalized it is imperative that as non-formal educators we provide opportunities for youth to engage in activities that will expand their worldview. In 2017, Kentucky 4-H hosted fourteen youth and one adult from the Japanese LABO Program through the States’ 4-H International Program. Japanese youth are paired with an American youth to spend four-weeks immersed in American culture. A Hancock County 4-H family was host to a youth. At the end of the four-week

Full Story

Photography Business Started in 4-H

Author: Janet Turley

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H is an organization reaching youth, ages 5-18 years old, from all walks of life all across America.  Members of the 4-H program can join clubs and projects where they can increase their knowledge, develop their skills and have opportunities to succeed.  One Warren County 4-H member took advantage of all that 4-H had to offer and now has a successful photography business where she shoots senior portraits, prom photos and wedding and engagement shoots.  Her business has been up a

Full Story

Progressive Agriculture Youth Safety Day

Author: Stacey Potts

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Unintentional injury, while declining, remains the leading cause of death among children ages 19 and under.  (Source: Safekids.org)  To raise awareness and show children ways to prevent these types of injuries, the Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service applied for and received a grant from the Progressive Agriculture Foundation to host a Progressive Agriculture Youth Safety Day.  The grant provided access to training, along with educational and planning materials.  It

Full Story

It Started with a Colossal Cookie

Author: Jan Gibson

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Not unlike the benefits of job shadwoing for career exploration, youth engaged in 4-H project work get to try out and develop specific skills and interests.  Many times this helps them narrow down the career clusters that they would like to pursue in post-secondary education and eventually employement.  This very thing has happened for 14 year old Chloe.  Five years ago, Chloe signed up for the 4-H foods prep classes.  She entered her completed foods project in the county and

Full Story

Photography Business Started with 4-H

Author: Julie Brown

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H is an organization reaching youth, ages 5-18 years old, from all walks of life all across America.  Members of the 4-H program can join clubs and projects where they can increase their knowledge, develop their skills and have opportunities to succeed.  One Warren County 4-H member took advantage of all that 4-H had to offer and now has a successful photography business where she shoots senior portraits, prom photos and wedding and engagement shoots.  Her business has been up a

Full Story

Youth Practice Citizenship at 4-H Issues Conference

Author: Courtney Brock

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

A study conducted by Princeton University found that youth involvement in citizenship and civic engagement leads to reduced risky behavior, increased success in school and leads to greater civic participation later in life. However, youth today are less likely than those in earlier generations to exhibit many important characteristics of citizenship. The Kentucky 4-H Issues Conference is an opportunity for youth to enrich their citizenship/civic engagement roles, enhance their leadership skills,

Full Story

Summer Here, Some Are Gone...to Outpost

Author: Eric Comley

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

In the 2017 Outdoor Foundation report on Outdoor Recreation participation, 15% of respondents said they went outside to feel more confident, 9% to talk to new people, and 18% to gain a sense of accomplishment. 4-H Camp is a staple of the Kentucky 4-H Program and one of the most recognizable programs in Garrard County 4-H as well. The Garrard County 4-H Youth Development Agent, to improve local youth confidence, social skills, and accomplishment, recruited 43 youth to attend 4-H Summer Camp. Beyo

Full Story

Despite significant personal challenges, a youth has bright future because of his club experience

Author: Dominique Wood

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Despite significant personal challenges, a youth has bright future because of his club experience

Livingston County is a rural county with a population of 9,200 people and a high percentage of poverty (14.5%).  Livingston County 4-H strives to provide a variety of educational experiences to create opportunities for youth to discover their talents and career paths.  The CHOPPED Cooking Club began in 2016 with ten youth ages 8 to 17.  The group meets monthly to develop life skills and healthy eating habits as they prepare recipes. The club uses the CHOP CHOP Magazine and educati

Full Story

Cumberland County 4-H Washington D.C Experience

Author: Elijah Wilson

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Washington D.C Trip – 24 4-H members and their family members participated

Full Story

Youth Entrepreneurship

Author: Elijah Wilson

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Cost Share 

Full Story

From 4-H Camper to Career

Author: Christina A. Martin

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Youth and teen participation in 4-H Camping program in Russell County has increased steadily over the past fifteen years.  From published research by West Virginia Extension in the Journal of Extension, 4-H camp has been shown to teach valuable leadership skills such as working well with others, working as a member of a team, leading a group, taking charge of an activity, knowing how to prepare and lead an activity, sharing leadership with others, and knowing how to implement responsibiliti

Full Story

Kentucky 4-H International Program

Author: Kelly Smith

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

As our society becomes more globalized it is imperative that as non-formal educators we provide opportunities for youth to engage in activities that will expand their worldview. In 2017, Kentucky 4-H hosted fourteen youth and one adult from the Japanese LABO Program through the States’ 4-H International Program. The Satterfield family in Jefferson County participated in this program. Japanese youth are paired with an American youth to spend four-weeks immersed in American culture. At

Full Story

2018 4-H Summit

Author: Sherri Farley

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Research suggests distinctive characteristics of young adolescents (middle school aged youth) regarding their physical, cognitive, moral, psychological, and social-emotional development, as well as spiritual development (Scales, 2010). Young adolescents (middle school aged youth) warrant educational experiences and schools that are organized to address their physical, intellectual, emotional/psychological, moral/ethical, spiritual, and social developmental characteristics (Caskey & Anfara, 2

Full Story

After School Clubs

Author: Susan Campbell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Child Trends Databank reports through after-school activities, children can develop social skills, improve their academic performance, and establish strong relationships with caring adults.Anderson County Extension Service has worked with our school district to provide bus transportation to our office so youth can participate in after school clubs.  After school clubs that are offered are; Livestock, Cloverbuds, Cloverkids, Middle School, and Art with Emma. Youth are bussed to the extension

Full Story

Diversity Driven

Author: Chelsea Young

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

            Diversity begins with exposure leading to understanding and acceptance. The Diversity Inclusive Program Model (Lavergne, 2008) offers a good outline for understanding ways to guide programming in a diverse world. The first concept that this model offers is that of bringing to the table a positive attitude. Positive attitudes give way for positive outcomes which is the ultimate goal of building acceptance and understanding of diversity. Next is previous p

Full Story

Leslie County Youth Development Education at Kentucky 4-H Summit 2018

Author: Vicki Boggs

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Kentucky 4-H Summit seeks to engage middle school aged youth and retain their involvement in 4-H activities through the middle school years, along with empowering youth to become active 4-H leaders on the local and state levels.  Kentucky 4-H Summit centers objectives and goals on the developmental needs of middle school aged youth: 4-H Summit aims to provide youth from across the Commonwealth with the opportunity to develop leadership skills through acquiring new knowledge to tak

Full Story

4-H Summit

Author: Natasha Robinson

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Research suggests distinctive characteristics of young adolescents (middle school aged youth) regarding their physical, cognitive, moral, psychological, and social-emotional development, as well as spiritual development (Scales, 2010). Young adolescents (middle school aged youth) warrant educational experiences and schools that are organized to address their physical, intellectual, emotional/psychological, moral/ethical, spiritual, and social developmental characteristics (Caskey & Anfara, 2

Full Story

Safe Grape Harvesting Extension Demonstration

Author: Angela Whitehouse

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Safe Grape Harvesting Extension Demonstration

Working with homeschool families and their 4-H clubs demonstrating vineyard maintenance, safe Grape Harvesting and different varities of grapes. and what grapes can be made into such as juice and jellies.  

Full Story

Helathy Relationship Panel Discussion

Author: Amanda Wilson

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence’s Domestic Violence Fact Sheet, One in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. An estimated 1.3 million women are victims of physical assault by an intimate partner each year. It’s been found that 85% of domestic violence victims are women. Historically, females have been most often victimized by someone they knew. Females who are 20-24 years of age are at the greatest risk of non-fatal intimate

Full Story

2018 Kentucky 4-H Summit

Author: Wanda Paris

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Kentucky 4-H Summit seeks to engage middle school aged youth and retain their involvement in 4-H activities through the middle school years, along with empowering youth to become active 4-H leaders on the local and state levels. Objectives of Kentucky 4-H Summit are centered on the developmental needs of middle school aged youth: 4-H Summit aims to provide youth from across the Commonwealth with the opportunity to develop leadership skills through acquiring new knowledge to take back and impleme

Full Story

Kentucky 4-H Summit

Author: Gary Druin

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

2018 Kentucky 4-H Summit Kentucky 4-H Summit seeks to engage middle school aged youth and retain their involvement in 4-H activities through the middle school years, along with empowering youth to become active 4-H leaders on the local and state levels. 4-H Summit develops leadership skills through acquiring new knowledge to implement within their local communities. Youth have the opportunity to belong to a group of peers, expand teamwork skills, exercise communication skills through n

Full Story

2018 Kentucky 4-H Summit

Author: Dominique Wood

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

2018 Kentucky 4-H Summit

Research suggests distinctive characteristics of young adolescents (middle school aged youth) regarding their physical, cognitive, moral, psychological, and social-emotional development, as well as spiritual development (Scales, 2010). Young adolescents (middle school aged youth) warrant educational experiences and schools that are organized to address their physical, intellectual, emotional/psychological, moral/ethical, spiritual, and social developmental characteristics (Caskey & Anfara, 2

Full Story

4-H Overnight Camping

Author: Wade Raymer

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

The Webster County Extension Council identified life skills as a need for the citizens of Webster County. Life skills promote mental well-being in young people and equips them to face the realities of life. Life skills are “abilities for adaptive behavior that enable individuals to deal effectively with the demands and challenges of everyday life” (WHO, 1997, p.1). The Extension Service can provide programming in areas that will enable children, youth, and adults to develop life skil

Full Story

Cooking Basics

Author: Samantha Gamblin

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

During no school days for Bullitt County, 4-H offers day camps for youth from 5-19 years old. Bullitt 4-H and the Bullitt County Family Resource contact work together to make the camps a success.4-H has many things to offer so there was much to choose from which makes it a new camp every month during the school year. During school clubs, youth were excited to learn about cooking and nutrition. So we decided to offer more cooking camps. During the morning hours basic skills of measuring, using a

Full Story

Teen Retreat

Author: Samantha Gamblin

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

The purpose of Kentucky 4-H Retreat is to retain youth involvement in 4-H activities through the middle and high school years, along with empowering youth to become active 4-H leaders on the local and state levels. Objectives of Kentucky 4-H Retreat are to provide youth from District 3  with the opportunity to develop leadership skills through acquiring new knowledge to take back and implement within their local communities. Youth have the opportunity to belong to a group of peers and expan

Full Story

Top 12 Week 2017

Author: Steven Austin

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

On July 14-20 of 2017, Top 12 Week took place.  Actually 13 individuals attended, which is a story within it's self.  Top 12 is the start of a journey for some and the conclusion for others.  Those attending Top 12 Week are provided training in reasons (public speaking), livestock evaluation (decision making), and traveling with individuals they may not know to visit multiple farms and organizations (net working).  Along with the knowledge they gain, they also are competi

Full Story

4-H Livestock Judging at the National Contest

Author: Steven Austin

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

After months of travel and training it comes down to four individuals that get to called the Gold Team.  Five individuals were kept out of eight to push each other to become the best.  After a very inspirational message from an unexpected source the decision was made on who the Final Four would be to compete at the National Contest.  Now this could have caused a major issue, however everything we had been working on for the past three years came together.  One individual coul

Full Story

Kentucky State Skillathon Contest

Author: Steven Austin

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

On Saturday, February 17, 2018, 250 contestants and 120 adults traveled to Bowling Green for the State Livestock Skillathon Contest.  The weather was pleasant and the contest ran fairly smooth thanks to the great Volunteers and County Agents.  This activity looks bright as there was almost 110 clover contestants and the other two divisions held steady.  We look forward to seeing everyone next year.  

Full Story

Migrant Education Day Camp

Author: Patrick Allen

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

This year Scott County Extension programs collaborated on designing a three day collection of day camps for the Migrant Education program in Scott County. Family Consumer Sciences, Horticulture, Snap-Ed and 4-H combined their efforts to implement a program that would incorporate fun and education together for 50 youth. These youth ranged in age from 5 years old to 15 years of age. Separated into three groups, they rotated to each program area and participated in a verity of activities designed t

Full Story

4-H Camp Success

Author: Kayla Watts

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H emphasizes youth development is areas of healthy living, citizenship, STEM, agriculture and many others.  According to Mark Mains, Assistant Director of 4-H Youth Development, “For many youth in Kentucky, 4-H Camp is their first exposure to all that 4-H Youth Development can offer.”  Attending camp, for some youth, is their first-time away from home, and allows them to explore all the various facets of 4-H Youth Development.  Because we know that 4-H camp helps bui

Full Story

When a Letter from an Inmate Proves the Power of 4-H Positive Youth Development

Author: Lisa Hagman

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

A piece of mail lands on a desk…return address is a correctional facility with a stamp in red ink across it that reads, “This mail is from an inmate of the Orange County Jail.” The hand-written letter inside this envelope was heartfelt words from a former Hancock County 4-H member.For more than 10 years, 4-H has partnered with Tufts University to study the effectiveness of its youth development programs. This first of its kind research study found that 4-H’s unique hands

Full Story

4-H Cloverbud Overnight Camping Programming

Author: Dana Anderson

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

The Cloverbud 4-H Camp experience is a unique youth development program designed for youth 6-8 years old to experience 4-H Camp. The two-night residential camp is designed to give younger youth the opportunity to spend a nights away from home and experience what 4-H Camp has to offer while sharing the experience with approved adult or parent. The focus of the camp is to engage in cooperative, non-competitive learning experience. 4-H Cloverbud members participate in learning activities that promo

Full Story

4-H Camp

Author: Stephen Conrad

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

The Kentucky 4-H mission statement reads "4-H YD Education creates opportunities and supportive environments for culturally diverse youth and adults to be capable, competent, and caring citizens". The Boone County 4-H Program feels that one of the best ways to achieve this mission is with a strong residential camping program. This June we had 360 attend camp (291 campers, 29 teen volunteers, 34 adult volunteers, and 6 staff). 18 instructional classes were offered, covering a wide range

Full Story

Cooperation between 4-H and FFA

Author: George Heersche

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Cooperation between the Spencer County 4-H and FFA dairy programs are a model example for other counties. Spencer County is very active in our 4-H dairy judging program. Many of  their youth trained in the 4-H program eventually represent Kentucky in  the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest and the National FFA Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management Career Development Event. The National FFA Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management Career  Development Event has a por

Full Story

National Educational Event Involvement

Author: George Heersche

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

 I am chairman of the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest  Management Committee, and I serve as co-superintendent of the dairy  cattle judging contests at the North American International Livestock  Exposition. Both of these are high profile educational events which  bring recognition to the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture,  Food and Environment.  Serving as chairman of the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest  Management Committee

Full Story

Stuck in the Middle

Author: Katie Mills

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Stuck in the Middle is another amazing opportunity for Middle School students to learn more about what 4-H has to offer while gaining leadership skills and teamwork. Stuck in the Middle is held at West Kentucky 4-H Camp in Dawson Springs and open to all Middle School youth in District Six and Seven.  The planning committee for 2018 was made up of Mackenzie Pogue (Muhlenberg), Ginny Harper (Calloway), Kelsey Chadwick (Carlisle), Kaitlyne Metsker (Christian) and Katie Jury (Hopkins).  A

Full Story

4-H Opens Doors to Success for Youth

Author: Novella Froman

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Opens Doors to Success for Youth     “If opportunity doesn’t know, build a door.”-Milton Berle. Pike County 4-H builds doors and opened it and here are two examples of how our program “makes the best better.      Danica won the David Sparrow Spirit Award two years in a row! Danica won these award during the American Private Enterprise Seminars.   Why is this significant? The first time I met her was during a 4-H meeting. She ran for

Full Story

KY Summit

Author: Valerie Stewart

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Research suggests distinctive characteristics of young adolescents (middle school aged youth) regarding their physical, cognitive, moral, psychological, and social-emotional development, as well as spiritual development (Scales, 2010). Young adolescents (middle school aged youth) warrant educational experiences and schools that are organized to address their physical, intellectual, emotional/psychological, moral/ethical, spiritual, and social developmental characteristics (Caskey & Anfara, 2

Full Story

Leadership Skills Into Action Grant

Author: Shannon Farrell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Emily Comer, Clark County 4-H: The Dennis Goodman Grant allowed Emily Comer from District 4 to work with 4-H Agents in her district to plan and implement the District 4-H Middle School Leadership Academy. The experience started with the 4-H Middle School Retreat where 4-H middle school students developed leadership skills and had the opportunity to connect with others.  Classes included leadership exploration with the Kentucky 4-H President, breaking barriers, public speaking, and developin

Full Story

Countdown to Kindergarten

Author: Jessica Morris

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Kindergarten readiness has been the topic of numerous discussions around Kentucky for the past several years. Serving on both Family Resource councils and where I work heavily with our school system I was apart of lots of conversations where the question was asked "What are we going to do to correct the issue of our children not being ready to attend Kindergarten?"Wolfe County 4-H and Extension joined the Wolfe County Family Resource Center, Red River Valley Family Resource Center and

Full Story

4-H Camp: Growing Youth and Developing Leaders

Author: Shannon Farrell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Camp is one of the greatest outreaches and teachingmethods 4-H and extension offers its participants.  With opportunities for skills mastery,mentorship and relationship building, independence, self-direction, socialinclusion, and so much more – there are no other programs built into 4-H thatcan offer as much positive youth development in so many layers for 5consecutive days and for such a large group. Camp is for the campers; however, the leadership and skills learned an

Full Story

Making 4-H Camp Affordable for Jackson County Youth

Author: Verlene Congleton

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Over eighty percent of youth receive free or reduced lunch in Jackson County due to meeting economic guidelines.  Making 4-H Camp affordable for Jackson County youth has been a struggle for many years with the cost of 4-H Camp rising by 50% in the past ten years. The Jackson County 4-H Council held several fund-raisers throughout the year to pay half of the Jackson County 4-H Campers Camp fee however with local businesses and plants shutting down even that wasn't enough for youth to be

Full Story

4-H Camp

Author: Shelley Meyer

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Camp is designed to build youth development skills in multiple areas including the four key concepts of mastery, independence, generosity, and belonging as well as increase individual interests, social aspects, and physical activity.  However, the cost of attending 4-H camp and youth being unfamiliar with overnight camping experiences had minimized participation in the past. Pendleton County 4-H partners with multiple groups in an effort to maximize the overall camping program. Com

Full Story

Camp Promotion Leads to Change in Camp Numbers

Author: Molly Jordan

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

If you were to ask any youth in Bracken County what the best part about 4-H is, some would say livestock, some would say day camps, BUT the majority of all kids would excitedly say 4-H CAMP! In Kentucky the 4-H Camping Program is strong. It is more than just a week away from parents…it is a week full of new experiences, a chance to meet new friends, and an array of activities that focus on teamwork, physical activity, and personal development. Once the camp dates were released, it wa

Full Story

State Fair Youth Beef Show

Author: Andy Mills

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

For twenty-eight years this ANR agent has been working the state fair youth beef show--the superintendent for the last 15. For many youth, showing at the state fair marks the end of their beef project. On intent of the youth beef project is to encourage youth to produce cattle in their adult lives. Therefore, to help foster this desire, the experiences the youth have during their project need to be real but also, hopefully, positive. As the superintendent of the show, this ANR agent ccan try to

Full Story

Cloverbud Club

Author: Cathy Toole

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

The 4-H Cloverbud program is designed to be noncompetitive, educational, activity-based, cooperative learning centered, safe, developmentally age appropriate, and success-oriented. By allowing children between the ages of 5-8 to participate in a positive learning experiences it helps them to build life skills at a younger age. The Henry County Cooperative Extension Service is now offering an afterschool Cloverbud Club.Two high school seniors approached the local agent in allowing them

Full Story

4-H invited into private school, over 100 new underserved youth reached

Author: Brandy Calvert

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H invited into private school, over 100 new underserved youth reached

The 2017-2018 brought a new face to Gateway Christian Academy as Mrs. Brandy was invited to start a 4-H Club and a Cloverbud Club afterschool. Over 50 youth enrolled in the Gateway 4-H Club and over 50 joined as Gateway 4-H Cloverbuds. The 4-H program became the first and only extracurricular offering at the school. This can be attributed to years of building the program and the program's excellent reputation for positive youth development within the county. Through an approach that bro

Full Story

4-H Camp Promotion

Author: Kaitlyne Metsker

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

In today’s world of technology and social media, communicating about upcoming events with a broad group of people has changed. The days of individuals receiving information from the newspaper or mailbox, have fallen to the wayside of technology and social media. As a result, the 4-H team in Christian County looked for alternative ways to promote 4-H summer camp and reach a broad range of people.Traditionally, 4-H summer camp promotion has occurred via mailing 4-H camp enrollment packets to

Full Story

Cards after Hours

Author: Tracey Tashjian

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

21st Century Learning Grants support the creation of community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children, particularly students who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools. The program helps students meet state and local student standards in core academic subjects, such as reading and math; offers students a broad array of enrichment activities that can complement their regular academic programs; and offers literacy and other educ

Full Story

Cloverbuds

Author: Meagan Lucas

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

This year the Pulaski county cloverbud program has grown by leaps and bounds. Thanks to or dedicated volunteers the cloverbud program has gone from a babysitting service to a program that allows children and their parents a chance to learn and discover all that 4-H has to offer.                Each cloverbud meeting has a theme usually related to the month. At each meeting the children get a chance to do a project or activity that involves creativity

Full Story

Summer Camp

Author: William Adkins

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

 4-H Camp gives youth across the nation an opportunity to experience what it is like when parents are not around for a few days. Life skills are imperative for everyone. The sooner youth can be involved in activities and programs that help develop these skills, the more prepared they will be in the future.  According to national research conducted by the American Camp Association, campers show significant growth in self-esteem, peer relationships, independence, adventure and exploratio

Full Story

4-H Camp Continues to Grow in Rowan County

Author: Raven Ford

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Kentucky 4-H Camp objectives for 4-H campers are to learn practical skills, develop effective interpersonal relationships with adults and other youth, and develop socially acceptable behavior, personal standards and values for living. The Rowan County 4-H program fulfilled these objectives in 2018 when it took the largest number of campers, teen and adult counselors to camp that it has ever taken. 166 attended Feltner 4-H Camp for four days in June. Twenty-four adult & teen counselors were a

Full Story

4-H Camp

Author: Ted Johnson

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Summer time can be an exciting time of the year. However, it can be a very expensive time for parents.  With the Lee County Kentucky median family income being $21,185.00 per household, for a family to pay $210.00 per camper to participate in 4-H camp in many cases is not going to be affordable for many families. Taking the economic situation in Lee County into consideration the Lee County District Board and the 4-H council teamed up and decided to send 4-Hers to camp free. This decision re

Full Story

4-H Camp

Author: Laken Campbell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Summertime can be an exciting time of the year. However, it can be a very expensive time for parents. With the Lee County Kentucky median family income being $21,185.00 per household, for a family to pay $210.00 per camper to participate in 4-H camp in many cases is not going to be affordable for many families. The Lee County Extension District Board and 4-H Council took this into consideration. The Distract Board paid $153.75 per camper and the 4-H Council paid for the rest of the cost. In addi

Full Story

4-H Camp Success

Author: Carrie Derossett

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

According to the U.S. Census the median household income in Logan County is $39,072 and according to Data U.S. the median household income in the city of Russellville is only $29,545. The cost for one 4-Her to attend 4-H Summer Camp is $205 plus the cost of transportation. Many families in Logan County do not have the resources to allow their children to attend 4-H Camp. Even if the cost of 4-H Camp was only $100, many families would find it difficult to come up with the extra money. It isn&rsqu

Full Story

4-H Camp leads to new skills

Author: Renata Farmer

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

According to the American Camping Association, camp provides the opportunity for children to discover and explore their interests, values, and talents.  4-H Camp is an exciting opportunity for youth to make new friends, build self-confidence, gain independence, strengthen problem-solving skills, and step out of their comfort zone.  Knox County 4-H camping numbers have continued to increase. In 2018, 68 campers and teens attended 4-H camp. While at camp, participants gained knowledge an

Full Story

4-H Camp Impacts Youth and Adults

Author: Jeremy Teal

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

According to the American Camping Association, “For years, campers' parents have reported that when their children return home from camp they are more caring, understand the importance of giving, are more equipped to stand up for what they know is right and are willing to be more responsible. These are the qualities that will help build a successful nation and a civil society”. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service believes in the 4-H Camping program. Hopkins C

Full Story

4-H Camp Counselor Training Manual

Author: Catherine Weaver

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

As Cooperative Extension Agents, we rely on educational materials to aid in total county program development of programs and volunteers.  I worked with co-worker, Cathy Weaver to develop a 4-H Camp Counselor Training Manual. The manual was designed to equip 4-H Professionals with the tools and skills necessary to effectively train summer camp volunteer counselors. The 4-H Camp Counselor Training Manual provides educational opportunities for volunteers on relevant subject-matter, organizatio

Full Story

4-H Summer Camp 2018

Author: Catherine Weaver

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Camp has a long standing tradition of teaching youth the 4 elements of the circle of courage in a concentrated week. Belonging, Independence, Mastery, and Generosity are seen in every activity at camp. This year, Jessamine County 4-H partnered with Mercer County 4-H to provide a week long camping experience that helped campers and counselors alike learn and be a part of the 4 elements, having the largest camping session in the state with 450 people total present. Prior to camp, approximately

Full Story

Nelson County Ag Day, 5K & Farm to Table Breakfast

Author: Luke Fries

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Nelson County Extension Agents, from all areas of programming, teamed up with both FFA Chapters in Nelson County in a quest to host the 3rd Annual Ag Day & 5K.  In 2018, committees decided to also host an "inaugural" Farm to Table Breakfast and Community Networking Event.  The event began and ended at the Nelson County Fairgrounds and the Breakfast was hosted at the newly rennovated Samuels Hall, a partnership grant formed and executed by the Nelson County Fair Board and

Full Story

Teen Leadership Enhancement

Author: Jeremy Teal

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Extension personnel, volunteer leaders, and teens from Extension District 7 were responsible for organizing, planning, and conducting a Teen Retreat for all of Western Kentucky. The planning committee received guidance from 4-H agents and adult volunteers, while allowing teen members to practice valuable leadership skills in deciding themes, educational topics, guest speakers, and logistics.  Planning for the event occurs over a 5 month period. Once the retreat began the teens associated wi

Full Story

Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference offers County Youth insight into College Life

Author: Dominique Wood

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference offers County Youth insight into College Life

Through the 94th Annual Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference, 4-H’ers from across the Commonwealth developed leadership and teamwork skills, improved communication skills, became involved in civic life, expanded knowledge related to a 4-H core content area: communication/citizenship, health, natural resources, agriculture, expressive arts, family consumer sciences, and science, engineering, and technology. The participants fostered a sense of belonging through networking, engaged in youth-adult pa

Full Story

Kentucky Volunteer Forum

Author: Susan Campbell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Volunteers play integral roles in 4-H programs, performing a variety of duties, functions, and tasks and possessing varied and rich knowledge, skills, and backgrounds (Radhakrishna & Ewing, 2011). The success of Extension programming is due, in part, to the dedication of a large cadre of volunteers (Smith, Dasher, & Klingborg, 2005). Although highly valued, volunteer involvement does not guarantee achievement of Extension's goals and fulfillment of learners' needs (Bolton, 1992).

Full Story

Estill County Fair 4-H Exhibits

Author: Isaac Hilpp

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Estill County Fair 4-H Exhibits

The Estill County Agricultural Fair has been a long-standing event in the local community. Allowing youth and adults of all ages to participate and exhibit their hard work from the past year. With six livestock shows, three divisions for exhibit entries and countless displays and events it is a hallmark of community pride. SituationThe 4-H exhibits and shows had seen a steady decline from 2005 to 2013 dwindling down to less than three hundred exhibits in total. The County Fair Board, County

Full Story

4-H Camp Meeting the Needs of Youth and Adults at the County Level

Author: Dominique Wood

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Camp Meeting the Needs of Youth and Adults at the County Level

West Kentucky 4-H Camp serves 4-H guests for eight weeks of the Summer schedule for camping groups comprised of two to six counties and specialty groups. Livingston County 4-H clientele participated in Cloverbud Camp and 4-H Summer Camp with record attendance. According to the 2016 U.S. Census, 2017 estimated to have a poverty rate of 14.5% with a population of 9,269 in Livingston County. 4-H Camp fees have increased annually but still remain lower than competitive camps due to the efforts of th

Full Story

Lifeskills learned with CYFAR program

Author: Kelly Smith

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

The Homeless Count Census for Louisville, Kentucky, provided by the Coalition for the Homeless, states that between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016, there were 443 homeless young adults ages 18 to 24. The same census states that there were 1079 youth under the age of 18 who were homeless during the time period. A partnership between University of Kentucky Extension (UK), Jefferson County Extension, and Louisville YMCA Safe Place, made possible by a Children, Youth, Families At-Risk (

Full Story

4-H Camp Makes a Difference

Author: Amy Branstetter

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Summer Camp provides the opportunity for youth to experience and excel in many activities. For many of the youth, it’s the first time for them to be away from home for a week. During this time, they learn to be independent and to make wise decisions. They learn to communicate with others, make new friends, and work as a team member. Leadership skills are developed, as well as an appreciation for nature and the outdoors. The Metcalfe County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development

Full Story

4-H’s BIG Compliment!!!

Author: Paula Tarry

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Member retention has always been a concern with many members joining early at the ages of 9 and 10 and dropping out at ages 12 to 14. According to research (Ritchie and Resler, 1993) reasons for drop-out rate included: displeased with their 4-H club (boring meetings, not enough project help), too busy with sports or too busy with a job; lacked understanding of the 4-H program, its goals, activities, events and time commitment; never felt welcome or part of the group; and project groups didn&

Full Story

Christian County 4-H Camping Program-Growing by Leaps and Bounds

Author: Kaitlyne Metsker

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Christian County 4-H Camping Program-Growing by Leaps and Bounds

The Kentucky 4-H Program holds the mission of improving people through intentional life skill development. Annually, camping programs across the state serves 25,000 guests at the four camp camps located across the state. West Kentucky 4-H Camp, located in Dawson Springs, KY, is the home to the Christian County 4-H Summer Residential Camping Program. Last year, West Kentucky 4-H Camp served 2,131 campers, volunteers, and staff. A goal for Christian County is to continue to rebuild the local progr

Full Story

Jefferson County Family Hosts an International Student

Author: Chanda Hall

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

As our society becomes more globalized it is imperative that as non-formal educators we provide opportunities for youth to engage in activities that will expand their worldview. In 2017, Kentucky 4-H hosted fourteen youth and one adult from the Japanese LABO Program through the States’ 4-H International Program. One of those 14 was here in Jefferson County. A Japanese youth was paired with an American youth family to spend four-weeks immersed in American culture. The participant in Jeffers

Full Story

Camp Enhances Life Skill Development across the Commonwealth

Author: Timothy Stillwell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Camp is an important delivery mode for Extension education and a powerful experience for youth participants (Garst, 2010). Multiple studies have demonstrated that camp experiences produce positive developmental outcomes in youth (Henderson, Bialeschki, & James, 2007; Mishna, Michalski, & Cummings, 2001; Readdick & Schaller, 2005; Thurber, Scanlin, Scheuler, & Henderson, 2007; Yuen, Pedlar, & Mannell, 2005). Camp research conducted by 4-H professionals (Arnold, Bourd

Full Story

West KY 4-H Clover Bud Camp

Author: Marla Stillwell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

With the primary goal of the Kentucky 4-H Clover Bud program being to promote children’s healthy development – mentally, physically, socially and emotionally, the West KY 4-H Clover Bud camp and its team of agent coordinators worked hard to provide an excellent opportunity for children ages 5-8 and their families to learn about the world around them, develop positive attitudes about learning new things by hands-on involvement, develop a deeper relationship with a caring adult and lea

Full Story

1st Annual 4-H Festival and Extension Expo

Author: Marla Stillwell

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

In 2017, Hardin County 4-H Agents and the 4-H Program Assistant worked with the Hardin County 4-H Council to offer the 1st annual 4-H Festival & Extension Expo. The purpose of the event was to increase awareness of 4-H clubs and Extension programs to the communities of Hardin County. The event was well-attended with just over 300 people in attendance. Current members and leaders from each club in the county were present and provided club information as well as hands-on activities for visitin

Full Story

West Kentucky 4-H Clover Bud Camp

Author: Julie Brown

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

With the primary goal of the Kentucky 4-H Clover Bud program being to promote children’s healthy development – mentally, physically, socially and emotionally, the West KY 4-H Clover Bud camp and its team of agent coordinators worked hard to provide an excellent opportunity for children ages 5-8 and their families to learn about the world around them, develop positive attitudes about learning new things by hands-on involvement, develop a deeper relationship with a caring adult and lea

Full Story

4-H Achievement Record Keeping Workshop 2017

Author: Anna Meador

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

While record-keeping is often a life skill over-looked in today’s world, Kentucky and Allen County 4-H see the importance of record keeping as we build the future leaders and business owners of tomorrow. In order to help teach these skills, Allen County 4-H hosted its first 4-H Achievement Record-Keeping Workshop during August of 2017. During this workshop youth and parents learned techniques for record keeping, tips for keeping information organized, and how to complete the 4-H Achievemen

Full Story

Be Friendship Focused

Author: Ola Donahue

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Girl bullies do not fit the stereotype of a bully. To most adults a bully is a big kid pushing around another kid half the size. Girl bullies are the popular girls in school and are well liked by adults. She is overconfident and is the “queen bee” of the group telling others what to do and think. Some unsettling statistics a girl is bullied every seven minutes. Almost one-third of girls are directly involved in bullying (as the bully or the bullied). 15% of girls who are bullied tell

Full Story

4-H Summit

Author: Lloyd Saylor

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Story By: Rachel E. Noble, Ed.D., Extension Specialist for 4-H Youth Development Modified by Lloyd G. Saylor Butler co. Extension Agent for 4-H.4-H Summit 4-H Summit has been around for over a decade now. It is a middle school aged leadership program. It helps middle school aged youth examine those 4-H activities that require more effort, but offer greater rewards.  By exposing middle school aged youth to our state 4-H Teen Council, Science Engineering and Technology Boards,

Full Story

4-H Camp more than a good time

Author: Ola Donahue

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

4-H Camp more than just a good time. At summer residential camp, when children make new friends, explore the world around them, and learn that "I can" is much more powerful than "I can't", magic happens. In an environment created just for them, children learn real life skills, develop self-esteem, and gain a sense of independence and community. Whether children are playing, exploring nature, conquering new heights, or becoming part of a camp family, they are creating memo

Full Story

#adulting teaches teens to live independently

Author: Stacey Potts

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Daviess County 4-H offered a six-part program entitled #adulting during March and April of 2018.The program was geared towards juniors and seniors in high school.  Nine teens completed the program, four of whom were residents of the local girls group home.  Lessons included hands on learning and activities with the topics of car maintenance, employment and etiquette, being a smart consumer, kitchen know-hows, money smarts and laundry and clothing repair.  Instruction was provided

Full Story

West Kentucky 4-H Clover Bud Family Camp

Author: Deana Reed

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

With the primary goal of the Kentucky 4-H Clover Bud program being to promote children’s healthy development – mentally, physically, socially andemotionally, the West KY 4-H Clover Bud family camp and its team of 4-H agentcoordinators worked hard to provide an excellent opportunity for children ages5-8 and their families to learn about the world around them, develop positiveattitudes about learning new things by hands-on involvement, develop a deeperrelationship with a caring adult a

Full Story

Volunteers Flock to Education and Recognition

Author: Eric Comley

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Volunteers play integral roles in 4-H programs, performing a variety of duties, functions, and tasks and possessing varied and rich knowledge, skills, and backgrounds (Radhakrishna & Ewing, 2011). The success of Extension programming is due, in part, to the dedication of a large cadre of volunteers (Smith, Dasher, & Klingborg, 2005). Although highly valued, volunteer involvement does not guarantee achievement of Extension's goals and fulfillment of learners' needs (Bolton, 1992).

Full Story

4-H Issues Conference Continues to Strengthen Community Engagement

Author: Charles Stamper

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Since its inception in 1989, the Kentucky 4-H Issues Conference schedule has changed in its look and content, but the focus and goals have not. The goals of the KY 4-HIC are for Delegates to:     Enrich their citizenship/civic engagement roles.     Enhance their leadership skills.     Develop public presentation skills.     Gain an understanding of local issues and learn the process     of addressing local issues.Dur

Full Story

KY 4-Hers Participate in the True Leaders in Service Campaign

Author: Charles Stamper

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

In 2017 the National 4-H Program began the True Leaders in Service Campaign to increase the involvement of youth in community and service learning projects in their local communities. In 2017, five county 4-H programs participated, with over 100 teens and adults giving 500 hours of service. In 2018 that number grew to 15 counties participating. There were approximately 150 teens and adults who participated in 15 service projects just in the month of April. Over 750 hours of service was

Full Story

4-H Cloverbuds Explore New Things Outside of the Classroom

Author: Paul Adkins

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Parents are often contacting the Extension Office looking for opportunities for children below the age of 9—many children ages 5-8 (4-H Cloverbuds) participate in the 4-H Cloverbuds Club or participate as Cloverbuds in other clubs with the goal of them becoming a regular member of 4-H at age 9. The 4-H Cloverbuds Club leader worked with the 4-H agent to develop meetings that are developmentally appropriate for youth ages 5-8. The Cloverbuds Club now has 20 members! In addition to the

Full Story