Success StoryDigital Problem Solvers



Digital Problem Solvers

Author: Mercedes Maness

Planning Unit: Community & Economic Development (CEDIK)

Major Program: Youth Engagement Leadership Program (YELP)

Outcome: Initial Outcome


CEDIK, in collaboration with with Chuck Stamper at 4-H Youth Development, hosted a four session community problem solving program, titled Digital Problem Solvers. Three counties participated; Estill, Johnson, and Woodford. The teams were comprised of a Team Leader, a formal or non-formal leader in their community, and at least two youth. In total, there were seven youth who continually participated in the four sessions. Each session covered steps in the community problem solving process which includes 1) creating a community profile, 2) finding areas of concern in your community, 3) identifying challenges created by the areas of concern, 4) recognizing the underlying problem, 5) naming possible solutions, 6) developing a plan of action. Participants learned about asset mapping, and completed an activity identifying the community capitals in their county which they used to create a Community Profile. Teams also completed a SWOT analysis of their communities to better understand the issues in their county and begin the process of identifying the underlying problem their team wanted to address. After identifying the underlying problem, teams presented their plan of action and solutions to the group. Teams have completed a write-up of their plans of action and the next steps they intend to take. 






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