Author: Mike Meyer
Planning Unit: 4-H Central Operations
Major Program: Leadership 4-H Core Curriculum
Plan of Work: Health, Nutrition, and Wellness
Outcome: Long-Term Outcome
Each fall, the Harrison County Teen Council comes together to appoint new officer and committee positions that will help market and represent 4-H within the community. The group consists of 32 middle and high school students that have shown an interest in gaining leadership and communication skills through council involvement. One requirement for council members, is to assist with an after-school or in-school club each month. Four teens in particular expressed an interest in becoming our primary Cloverbud Club leaders. After three training sessions, the group of leaders planned and implemented two Cloverbud meetings, utilizing a science lesson, healthy snack activity, and team building component. In total, 72 youth ages 6-8 took part in one of the meetings. Photos and meeting reviews were shared on social media for parents to stay informed. Since, the motivated teen leaders of planned and implemented eight Cloverbud Club meetings in Harrison County, reaching over 288 contacts. Lessons have varied from health, nutrition, and science, to consumer education and citizenship. Under their leadership, the club continues to grow each month with new membership. The Teen Council leaders have set a goal of 32 Cloverbud Campers for 2019, which would be a new county record, as well as a Cloverbud Banquet for the end of the year. Transformational leadership opportunities are a focus of teen development within the Harrison County 4-H Program, working to help make a connection with communication and leadership skills learned to action plans. Other programs which have been a focus of teen leadership involvement include summer camp, environmental education camp, county fair, livestock club, and county communication contests within the school.
As universities tighten their financial belts and make decisions about program value, the need for e... Read More
Volunteers play integral roles in 4-H programs, performing a variety of duties, functions, and tasks... Read More