Success StoryBuilding Strong Relationships



Building Strong Relationships

Author: Joe Maynard

Planning Unit: Martin County CES

Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming

Plan of Work: Better Living Through 4-H Programming

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

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 a wonderful asset. The Resource Center directors identify needs that can be met with 4-H core curriculum. Those needs are then tended to through school clubs and other enrichment programs at each school. The outcome of this relationship has resulted in more students receiving 4-H programming. Even though the partnerships with the resource centers are vital, it is also necessary to build strong relationships with administration.  With this fact in mind, Martin County Extension hosts a Principals Breakfast every year.  This provides the chance to connect with principals in a more informal and relaxed setting. 4-H participation numbers have gone up every year and will continue to rise. The results don’t stop in the classroom. The Extension office collaborates with 4 of the 5 resource centers and schools in the summer for camps. Through this type of programming, a lot of teen counselors for 4-H camp have been attained. All the resource directors have also become great extension volunteers or program participants across all areas. They are outstanding advocates of the extension office. 






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about 2 years ago by Joe Maynard

The 98th Annual Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference was held at the University of Kentucky June 14-17, 2022... Read More


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about 2 years ago by Joe Maynard

Volunteers play integral roles in 4-H programs, performing a variety of duties, functions, and tasks... Read More