The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered how the 4-H Youth Development program has traditionally delivered youth learning experiences, young people are still learning by doing through a variety of activities and programs that emphasize 4-H’s philosophy of youth development.  At-home learning activities are taking place across the state and educational programs are delivered by virtual methods.  4-H is perceived as the foundation of positive youth development and during times like these, Extension’s role in helping youth succeed is more important than ever.  With statewide school closures, many traditional 4-H programs were canceled, but Kentucky Cooperative Extension agents still found ways to continue education at home. The Cooperative Extension Service has implemented new and engaging ways to educate youth through online activities, video conferencing, and 4-H Project To Go Bags.  The 4-H Project To Go Bags, provided free to youth, feature a wide range of activities designed to both learn, have fun virtually, and learn from the safety and comfort of home.   The Ohio County 4-H Facebook page provided information on Hand-Washing, being safe in the Covid-19 Pandemic, local and state 4-H programming and online activities that youth could participate in virtually.  Over 1700 4-H Project To Go Bags were distributed to youth in Ohio County over a 10-week period.   

“The 4-H Project To Go Bags were based on the Kentucky 4-H Curriculum and the focus on deciding which activities to offer was based on the ability to provide all of the materials needed so that families would not need anything additional to complete their activity,” said Gary Druin, 4-H agent in Ohio County.   Project kits curriculum, included information on Gardening, Nutrition, Visual Arts, Health, SET, Communications, Crafts, and Leadership activities.  Pictures of completed projects were posted on the 4-H Facebook page for the community to see. One parent commented, “This was a great a idea, we really appreciate the information on the Covid-19 pandemic and my kids really enjoy completing the 4-H Projects, the Extension Service plays a vital role in our community.”