Frankie’s Corner Little Thorobred Crusade (FCLTC) is a youth development program that began in 2015. Recently, Frankie’s Corner Little Thorobred Crusade collaborated with Kentucky State University, Family and Consumer Sciences (KSU: FCS) to offer programming through Cooperative Extension with the goal of reaching underserved populations. 

FCTLC in partnership with KSU: FCS offers clinics on Mondays and Wednesdays for 2 hours each. This program uses the Five Cs of positive youth development as a framework. The 5Cs is a nationally recognized youth engagement model that focuses not on “fixing” behavior problems, but building and nurturing all a child’s beliefs, behaviors, knowledge, attributes, and skills. The result should be a healthy and successful childhood – leading to healthy and successful adulthood. Frankie’s Corner Little Thorobred Crusade in partnership with Family Consumer Sciences: Kentucky State Extension Cooperative Extension and Consumer Sciences program is committed using the five Cs of Positive Youth Development as a framework to build:

• Confidence - a sense of self-worth and mastery; having a sense of self-efficacy (belief in one's capacity to succeed)   

• Character - taking responsibility; a sense of independence and individuality; connection to principles and values
     
• Connection - a sense of safety, structure, and belonging; positive bonds with people and social institutions
     
• Competence - the ability to act effectively in school, in social situations, and at work
     
• Contribution - active participation and leadership in a variety of settings; making a difference 

These categories are critical beneficial because it aids in the development of emotionally balanced and well-rounded young adults. Youth ages 9-18 participate in equestrian activities that develop: 

• Leadership
• Basic life skills
• Increased self-esteem
• Increased interpersonal & communication skills
• Horse management
• Groundwork
• Entrepreneurship
• & More

Thus far, students have learned to achieve both academic and personal goals. This program is designed to teach skills such as cooperation, trust, mentoring, and responsibility with the goal of transferring these skills into their everyday lives and reconnecting with peers, family and their community. We strive to have a world in which all youth succeed in life while feeling valued and respected.

During this current reporting period, students have increased all sorts of skills. They have grown in their ability to ride and their willingness to share their experiences. They have also worked on their communication and technology skills by recording short videos and sharing them on the FCLTC Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/frankiescorner). Students have also learned the importance of team building and helping each other. 

Source:

Harvard. 2020. The Five Cs Model of Positive Youth Development. Retrieved from http://exploresel.gse.harvard.edu/frameworkds/52