Success StoryYouth Win Achievement Awards



Youth Win Achievement Awards

Author: Kelsey Chadwick

Planning Unit: Graves County CES

Major Program: Civic Engagement

Plan of Work: Preparing Youth and Families for Successful Futures

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

Junior Achievement USA states that hiring officials only believe that about 20 percent of all young adults entering the workforce are "highly qualified" individuals and that one of the skills that employers are looking for but find lacking is oral and written communication skills. The 4-H Achievement program is working to bridge this gap by improving writing and speaking skills of 4-H members while rewarding them for participation and excellence in a variety of 4-H programs. Youth are encouraged to keep detailed records throughout the year while completing 4-H projects. As part of the process, some advancing 4-H'ers must complete an interview process and complete a resume.

The application process is time-consuming and complex, so simply completing the form is quite an achievement, as it requires lots of motivation and follow-through. Youth learn that hard work and determination in private can reap big rewards in public. This year, two Graves County 4-H'ers completed their achievement applications. Youth can often be found comparing point levels, reminding each other of 4-H involvement they had together, and making conscious decisions to engage in community service and citizenship activities to earn more points in areas they are lacking. To earn points in a variety of areas, youth will often work to find opportunities outside of their comfort zones. The Achievement program has given Graves County 4-H'ers an opportunity to shine and many are stepping up to the challenge. This year, the Gold Award and Silver Award was awarded to two Graves County 4-H'ers, and several 4-H'ers are beginning to work on applications for next year.






Stories by Graves County CES


Graves County Cooperative Extension and Farm Bureau Partner to Provide Grain Entrapment Devices to First Responders

Graves County Cooperative Extension and Farm Bureau Partner to Provide Grain Entrapment Devices to First Responders

about 4 months ago by Miranda Rudolph

Graves County was one of the many communities deeply impacted by the December 10, 2021 Quad State To... Read More


New Graves County Farmers' Market Kickoff Event Huge Success

New Graves County Farmers' Market Kickoff Event Huge Success

about 4 months ago by Miranda Rudolph

There has been an ongoing issue in Graves County with creating and sustaining a robust Farmers Marke... Read More