To say 2020 was a game changing year for the world would be a massive understatement.  Covid-19 has created challenges on health, social, economic, and environmental scales not seen since major World Wars.  The effects on how organizations provide their “products” of programming, research-based information, and social interaction is what the Cooperative Extension Service and others had to face.  Use of social media to provide virtual programming and information has met some of the need.

Marshall County 4-H had created a Facebook page about three years ago.  It’s been utilized in the past for some postings about 4-H Camp especially sharing pictures for parent/guardians to see; quick club meeting reminders; and a little bit of other information.  Overall, minimum usage.  That quickly changed in mid-March 2020 due to Covid-19.

Marshall County 4-H Facebook page has developed into the primary digital resource to get information out to clientele (youth, families, and community in general) regarding 4-H Youth Development program opportunities and updates.  A Marshall County 4-H Instagram account was also started to help in sharing of information typically sending individuals back to the Facebook page for details.  Some of the programming and announcements shared at least weekly if sometimes not daily since mid-March have included:

• The Marshall County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development created “Marshall 4-H Monday 4” video updates for three months to provide weekly updates on the status of the Extension Office, 4-H Project Clubs such as Sharp Shooters, and 4-H Camp.  
• Forever 4-Her Salutes to honor the Marshall County High School Class of 2020.
• Eight sessions of the first ever Marshall County 4-H Photography Challenges based on the State Fair 4-H categories with weekly submissions, judging, and results posted.
• Registration announcements for Summer 4-H Project Kits being provided in place of face-to-face day camps/workshops for 2020.
• Listing of the Kentucky 4-H weekly virtual offerings as well as other UK CAFÉ Extension resources/programs.
• Sharing of Kentucky 4-H Health Workgroup videos developed by the Marshall County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development.

The above is just a sampling of what’s been provided through the Marshall County 4-H KY Cooperative Extension Service Facebook page.   

While social media does not reach all potential clientele due to Internet access and family preferences, it has proven to be an effective way to get word and programs out during the Covid-19 pandemic.   Based on Facebook Insights report, since March 16, 2020 daily reach over 28 days increased 195% as of June 29, 2020.   The data also noted that in November 2019 was about 350 people compared to 5,500 by the end of June 2020.  Use of social media has definitely been one of the creative ways to provide 4-H Youth Development programs to the Marshall County Extension Service clientele and community.