4-H Youth DevelopmentPlan of Work

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Henry County CES

Title:
4-H Youth Development
MAP:
4-H Youth Development
Agents Involved:
Cathy Toole, Krista Perry, Megan McCoun
MAJOR PROGRAM 1:
Volunteer Development
MAJOR PROGRAM 2:
Health
MAJOR PROGRAM 3:
Communications and Expressive Arts
MAJOR PROGRAM 4:
Agriculture
Situation:

4-H Youth Development is part of Kentucky Cooperative Extension. Extension’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of Kentucky citizens through non-formal education for the entire family. Extension agents and volunteers take the results of university research and explain it in such a way that different age groups can learn and apply the information to their own lives. 4-H is a youth organization committed to building outstanding leaders with marketable skills to succeed in today’s global society.4-H empowers youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults. According to 2014 population estimates (census.gov)there are 233,463 youth living in households in KY in the recommended 4-H age range. Also, according to the Kentucky Department of Education (2014), the graduation rate for Kentucky students was 88.0 %,which did not meet the state goal. Research also shows us developing a strong sense of personal identity, responsibility, caring, compassion, and tolerance are essential first steps toward being engaged at the community level (National 4-H Council).

People, animals and plants are dependent on our Earth’s natural resources. Everything from the air we breathe, to the water we drink, to the soil we use for food production – these resources are vital to our existence. Therefore, it’s important that we care for and respect these resources. Understanding how our daily choices affect our environment, we can conserve natural resources and protect our environment for present and future generations.

Over the last 25 years, the number of stay at-home parents has decreased. Parents have increasingly relied on schools to teach concepts and skills once taught within the family. With societal changes and cuts in school budgets, many schools have eliminated family and consumer science labs and no longer include or have decreased FCS instruction in the curriculum. In nutrition alone, the lack of basic life skills is evidenced by alarming rises in childhood obesity, poor diets of youth of all ages, and an over reliance on packaged fast food. Life choices are often based more on personal desires rather than factual information. Those who seek information often turn to internet sources which may not be based in research. Decision-making may be based on product marketing claims, family tradition, myths, faulty information, and lack of knowledge. Today’s massive health and economic problems are due in part to the lack of instruction in the home by parents and in school through Family and Consumer Sciences classes. 4-H offers projects in FCS which assist youth in becoming responsible and contributing members of the family and contributing members of Kentucky communities. At the same time, these life skills prepare youth for the families they will establish as adults.

Providing youth with the ability to enhance and develop communication skills is of great importance in Kentucky. The development of communications skills is one of the preeminent skills necessary to grow as an individual, a community member and a leader. Using age appropriate activities selected from the approved Kentucky 4-H Communications & Expressive Arts Curriculum, educators can maximize the ability of youth to develop their writing, reading and personal communication capacities. This in turn creates a solid foundation for positive youth development (Jones, K. R. 2006) Strong writing, reading and presentation skills present youth with the dexterity of being good communicators as well as allowing them to form receptive relationships with peers and adults. When young people are confident and capable in presenting their thoughts and feelings they are more likely to accept roles of responsibility in their communities and enhance their contribution to society. This development of internal and external assets, as researched by the Search Institutes “The 40 Developmental Assets” helps to develop youth into competent,

caring and contributing adults.(Jones, K.R. 2006)

Long-Term Outcomes:

4-H empowers youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults. According to 2014 population estimates (census.gov)there are 233, 463 youth living in households in KY in the recommended 4-H age range. Also, according to the Kentucky Department of Education (2014), the graduation rate for Kentucky students was 88.0 %, which did not meet the state goal. Research also shows us developing a strong sense of personal identity, responsibility, caring, compassion, and tolerance are essential first steps toward being engaged at the community level (National 4-H Council).

Youth will use scientific techniques, responsible practices and innovative technologies that will positively sustain the natural resources in the home, community and world. Youth will engage in community projects related to natural resource conservation.

Be responsible and contributing individuals and family members. Gain and maintain employment through life skill development. Contribute to a safe, pleasant and productive home and family.

Youth will utilize the skills gained through education and involvement in Extension programs to serve as leaders in 4-H and other organizations; Youth share the elements of the music, dance, drama and visual arts with their community.

Youth become more comfortable sharing their thoughts with others.

Youth will develop into competent, capable, contributing adults as important developmental assets are met through their participation in 4-H Communications & Expressive Arts Programs.

Intermediate Outcomes:

Youth will use scientific decision making techniques to make decisions on a daily basis.

Youth will express themselves to others in group settings and on an individual bases.

Youth have a positive bond with a caring adult who believe in their success.

Youth apply the skills learned in 4-H in other activities at home, school

and in the community.

Youth set and achieve goals through a 4-H program.


Youth will make decisions in their daily lives that positively impact natural resources.

Youth will adopt practices to conserve and protect the environment in their

home and community.

Youth will use problem solving and logical reasoning skills and apply them

to environmental issues.


Utilize and practice life skills in projects and life situations.

Project a positive image and self-confidence.

Practice responsible consumer and financial decision-making.

Practice healthy eating choices.

Make choices that lead to responsible and beneficial results.

Adopt habits and skills that contribute toward employ-ability in the future.


Youth will construct a speech that has a clear introduction, body and closing;

Youth will make a presentation before their family, a group of their peers (such as at a 4-H club meeting),a school or county qualifying event;

Youth will demonstrate an increased level of confidence when presenting in front of groups; use their communication skills to assume a leadership role in 4-H or other organizations.

Youth apply elements of music ,dance, drama and visual arts in creating and performing.


Initial Outcomes:

Youth will contribute to self, family, community and to the institutions of our society.

Youth will have reduced risky behavior now and in the future.

4-H alumni will be successful in a global society.

4-H youth will successfully enter the workplace and/or institution of higher learning.


Youth will develop an interest in environmental science and sustainable practices and technologies.

Youth will gain knowledge of the interrelationship and inter-dependencies with an ecosystem.


Youth will identify the natural resources that are used within their home and community.

Gain knowledge and develop skills in Family & Consumer Sciences projects and programs.

Understand the decision-making process.

Gain skills in setting a goal and developing a plan of action.

Learn to read and follow instructions.


As a result of this program, youth will know how to: research a presentation topic prior to developing a speech or demonstration; Write an outline, including an introduction, body and conclusion for their speech or demonstration; Create a formal presentation, speech or outline using the

written outline; Be prepared to present before their family, a group of their peers (such as at a 4-H club meeting) and a school or county qualifying event; Youth can identify key elements of music, dance, drama and visual arts.

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: 4-H aged youth will sign up for clubs that interest them.

Indicator: Attendance at 4-H club meetings of their interest.

Method: Sign In sheets and observation

Timeline: Attendance at the majority of the meetings


Intermediate Outcome: 4-H aged youth will develop new skills through their involvement project club or special interest activity.

Indicator:Attendance and participation of 4-H members

Method:Observe and question leaders and adults as to how involved project members are in individual clubs and after school activities

Timeline:Throughout the program year


Long-term Outcome: application of skills learned through 4-H project clubs.

Indicator: completion of project work, attendance of out of county clinics and camps, participation in competitions and the success of the individuals. An increase number of items at the county and state fair.

Method: Face to face conversations with 4-Her, parent and leaders.

Timeline: Throughout the program year.


Initial Outcome: Youth will have increased knowledge of leaf and bark identification of trees

Indicator: Attendance and participation at the Day Camp.

Method: Observation and survey

Timeline: June 2023


Intermediate Outcomes: Youth will increase their knowledge of forestry and the benefits of having different types of trees in wooded areas.

Indicator: Attendance and participation at the second day of the camp

Method: Observation and survey

Timeline: June 2023


Long-Term Outcomes: Youth will be able to recognize a variety of trees in a forest setting and understand the importance of forestry.

Indicators: Attendance, Interaction with group

Method: Observation of leader and survey

Timeline: June 2023


Initial Outcome: Youth will understand what  macro-invertebrates are how they affect the wellness of a stream.  They will understand watersheds.

Indicators:  Attendance at day camp, Interaction with group

Method:  Walking a stream and gathering macro-invertebrates to identify.

Timeline:  June 2023


Intermediate Outcome:  Youth will be able to discuss what makes a stream healthy with others. Youth will be able to discuss where the water from Henry County flows through the different watersheds and where they empty.

Indicators:  Discussion with leader

Method:  Observation of leader and survey

Timeline:  June 2023


Long-Term Outcomes:  Youth will understand that the health of the county water supply depends on good stewardship and will work to promote good stewardship themselves as well as share this knowledge with others.

Indicators:  Group discussion 

Method:  Observation of leader and follow up survey

Timeline:  June 2023  


Initial Outcome: Youth involved in family and consumer projects will learn basic food preparation as well as nutrition, sewing skills, needlework skills, and how to start a business of their own.

Indicators: Involvement in after-school clubs and completion of projects.

Method: Through hands on learning and observation

Timeline: October - August 2023


Intermediate Outcomes: Youth will increase their skill levels by building on previous skills in consumer education projects.

Indicators: The complexity of their project work and the ability to complete the project or assignment.

Method: Face to face conversations with 4-Her, parent and leaders. Through hands on learning and observation.

Timeline: October - August 2023


Long-term Outcome: application of improved food preparation, food safety and healthy eating behaviors, creating a business, and creating garments from needlework skills. Turning handwork into a business.

Indicator: completion of project work, attendance of out of county clinics and camps, participation in competitions and the success of the individuals. An increase number of items at the county and state fair.

Method: Face to face conversations with 4-Her, parent and leaders.

Timeline: October - August 2023


Initial Outcome: Youth will have the opportunity to enhance communication skills through club meetings. They will be able to create and appreciate different types of art through club meetings and creating their own works of art.

Indicator: Participation in the county communications event, variety show, and art club.

Method: Assisted by leader and observation, projects entered into the fair.

Timeline: October - August 2023


Intermediate Outcome: Youth will have the opportunity to participate in the speech, demonstration and variety show. Youth will be challenged to create art work in many different mediums.

Indicator: Leader led activities, observation, and quality of presentations and art entered into the fair.

Method:  Observed through participation and mentoring

Timeline:  February - July 2023


Long-term Outcome: Youth will have an understanding and great knowledge of how to prepare, and present speeches and demonstrations at the county, district, and state level. They will have the opportunity to perform in the variety show at the county and district levels. They will be able to use their art form as a business.

Indicator: Youths ability to work independently and offer support to younger members.

Method: Observation and quality of work.

Timeline: October - August 2023








Learning Opportunities:

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES:

Learning Opportunities (repeat as needed):

Audience: 4Hers

Project or Activity: 4-H Means Business Club

Content or curriculum: Approved UK, guest speakers, Henry County Arts and Crafts Guild

Inputs: Guest speakers, Arts and Crafts Guild members, leaders, Farmers Markets

Timeline: Year long


Audience: 4Hers

Project or Activity: Beginning and Advanced Cooking Clubs

Content or curriculum: Approved UK

Inputs: volunteers, facilities

Date: October- May 2023 monthly


Audience: 4Hers

Project or Activity: Sewing club

Content or Curriculum: UK Approved

Inputs: Master Clothing Volunteer, facilities, sewing machines

Date: Jan-May 2023 meets 2 times a week


Audience; 4Hers

Project or Activity: Knitting Club

Content: Approved UK

Inputs: volunteers, facilities

Date: Feb-Mar 2023 weekly


Audience; 4Hers

Project or Activity: Crochet Class

Content or curriculum: Approved UK

Inputs: volunteers, facilities

Date: Feb-Mar 2023 weekly


Audience: 4-Hers

Project or Activity: Make It and Take It  Club

Content or curriculum: Approved UK

Inputs: Master Clothing Volunteers, facilities, materials, sewing machines

Date:  Meets Quarterly on Saturday's throughout the year 2022


Audience: 4Hers

Project or Activity: Art Club

Content or curriculum: Approved UK

Inputs: volunteers, facilities, materials for projects

Date: October - May 2023 monthly


Audience: 4Hers

Project or Activity: Photography Club

Content or Curriculum: UK Approved

Inputs: volunteers, facilities, cameras, mat board

Date: October - May 2023 monthly


Audience: 4-Hers

Project or Activity: Communications Event and Variety Show

Content or Curriculum: UK Approved

Inputs: volunteers, facilities, awards

Date: March/April/July 2023


Audience; 4Hers

Project or Activity; Woodworking

Content or Curriculum: Approved UK

Inputs; volunteers, facilities, wood kits

Date: Sept. 2023


Audience: 4-Hers

Project or Activity:  Rabbit and Poultry Club

Content or Curriculum:  Approved UK

Inputs:  volunteer leader, facilities, materials

Date:  October - August 2023


Audience:  4-Hers

Project or Activity:  Livestock Club

Content or Curriculum:  Approved UK

Inputs:  certified leader, facilities, materials

Date:  October - August 2023


Audience:  4-Hers

Project or Activity:  Horse Club

Content or Curriculum: UK Approved

Inputs:  certified volunteer, facilities, materials

Date: October - May 2023 monthly


Audience; 4-Hers

Project or Activity: Dog Club

Contents or Curriculum: Approved UK

Inputs: volunteer, facilities, obedience course materials

Date: October – August 2023 twice monthly


Audience; 4-Hers

Project or Activity: Shooting Sports

Contents or Curriculum: Approved UK

Inputs: certified volunteers, facilities

Date: October – August 2023


Audience: Ages 5-8

Project or Activity: Cloverbuds Club

Contents or Curriculum: Approved UK

Inputs: teen led with adult supervision, facilities, materials

Date: October - May 2023


Audience:  4-Hers

Project or Activity: Small Engine Club

Content or Curriculum:  Approved UK

Inputs: led by adult, materials

Date: March 2023 weekly


Audience: 4-Hers

Project or Activity: Pinterest Club

Content or Curriculum:  Items found on Pinterest in relation to 4-Hers interest within UK Approved guidelines

Inputs: volunteer led, facilities, materials

Date:  October - May 2023 monthly


Audience:  4-Hers

Project or Activity: Natural Resource Club

Content or Curriculum: Approved UK

Inputs: trained leader, facilities, materials

Date:  October - May 2023 monthly


Audience: Youth 9-19

Project or Activity:  Natural Resource Day Camp

Content or Curriculum:  Project Wet and Wild

Inputs:  leader assistance, field trips, materials, facilities

Date:  July 2023  1 day 


Audience:  Teens 14-19

Project or Activity: Teen Club

Content or Curriculum:  Leadership and Community Service

Inputs:  leader assistance, teen planning and programming together, field trips

Date:  October 2022- May 2023 monthly


Audience: Youth 9-19

Project or Activity: Light It Up

Content or Curriculum: UK Approved

Inputs: Basic wiring for a lamp and create unique bases. UK Approved

Date: Sept. 2022 


Audience: Youth 9-19

Project or Activity:  Cupcake Wars

Content or Curriculum:   UK Approved

Inputs:  Youth will learn proper ways to create their own recipes, cake decorating tips, measuring and reading recipes. 

Date:  August 2022 1 day camp


Audience: 4-Hers

Project or Activity: Jr. Food Challenge

Content or Curriculum: UK Approved

Inputs:  Youth will create nutritious recipes that they develop.  They will then plate a proper serving size and describe to the group how they make the dish followed by a tasting.  

Date:  June 2023 1 day camp


Audience:  Community

Project or Activity:  4-H Showcase

Content or Curriculum:  Showcase of all 4-H clubs during the Henry County Harvest Showcase. Allow the community to be aware of all the 4-H programs as a promotional event.

Inputs:  facilities, assistance

Date:  July 31, 2022





Success Stories

Youth Ag Day

Author: Cathy Toole

Major Program: Agriculture

Henry County has a rich agriculture history; it is the largest single source of income and provides the greatest number of employees in the county.  Currently our county receives over $30,607,000.00 a year in agriculture revenues.  The average size of a Henry County farm is 170 acres.  It has come to the attention of the Henry County Cooperative Extension Service that the elementary aged youth are not aware of the importance agriculture plays in the history or the economy of Henry

Full Story

Friendgiving

Author: Cathy Toole

Major Program: Leadership

The Friendsgiving Lunch was a collaboration between the Henry County Cooperative Extension Service and the Eminence Independent School District Family Resource Center.  The luncheon is the second annual meeting to empower middle and high school at risk females of their self-worth and inner strength.Over 40 students signed up to attend the event that was held at the extension service. Teen Ambassadors who had completed the GEMS peers program served a traditional Thanksgiving meal to the youn

Full Story

Teen Summit

Author: Cathy Toole

Major Program: Leadership

According to research, middle school is a time where young people find their place in this world, they are exploring where their strengths and interests align (Fagell. P.L., 2019). Therefore, it is imperative to provide positive experiences where young people may explore the world in a safe environment. Historically, there is a decline in enrollment numbers throughout the middle school years in 4-H programming, Kentucky 4-H hosts the Kentucky 4-H Summit Leadership Conference for middle schoolers

Full Story

GEMS

Author: Cathy Toole

Major Program: Health

Girls Empowered and Motivated to Succeed (GEMS) is a program in Henry County for 5th grade girls held after school. The program has 12 participants. The Henry County Cooperative Extension Service was asked to provide hands on lessons for these youth that would build on life skills.  The agents collectively decided that they would offer classes on nutrition, self-care and wellness, social media awareness, laundry and ironing basics, and basic sewing repairs.During the nutrition program the g

Full Story

4-H Teen Conference

Author: Cathy Toole

Major Program: Leadership

The 99th Annual Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference was held at the University of Kentucky June 13-16, 2023. The objectives of Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference are: develop leadership and teamwork skills, improve communication skills, foster civic engagement, expand knowledge and skills related to 4-H core content areas, gain club, county and state 4-H program skills, have fun, create a sense of belonging, expand social skills through networking, develop youth-adult partnerships, and become acquainted with

Full Story

Girls Empowered and Motivated to Succeed (GEMS)

Author: Krista Perry

Major Program: Family and Consumer Science

Girls Empowered and Motivated to Succeed (GEMS) is a program in Henry County for 5th grade girls held after school.  The program was designed to prepare young ladies for the next chapter of education and the challenges they will face with beginning a new school.  The program consisted of 12 participants who met weekly to learn about empowerment and how being motivated can make them successful. The Henry County Cooperative Extension Service was asked to provide hands-on lessons for thes

Full Story

4-H State Communication Event

Author: Cathy Toole

Major Program: Communications and Expressive Arts

Providing youth with the ability to enhance and develop communication skills is of great importance in Kentucky.  The development of communications skills is one of the preeminent skills necessary to grow as an individual, a community member and a leader. This in turn creates a solid foundation for positive youth development (Jones, K. R. 2006)This year 181 youth participated in State Communications Day.  These youth have gained knowledge in public speaking through county and area grou

Full Story
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