Success StoryMeeting Community Needs in a Pandemic



Meeting Community Needs in a Pandemic

Author: Mary S Averbeck

Planning Unit: Kenton County CES

Major Program: Science, Engineering, and Technology

Plan of Work: 4-H youth development Programs

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

The novel Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way 4-H youth development programs are implemented.   Videos, web-based programming, pre-packaged 4-H projects and electronic newsletters are just some of the methods to stay connected with 4-H youth.  An inner-city Covington collaboration resulted in a virtual day camp for youth aged Kindergarten through 5th grade in July.  Eighty-three youth from 55 low income households participated.  Each child received at least one age-appropriate 4-H project kit in the areas of science or arts/crafts. This agent made three videos demonstrating the various 4-H projects.  In addition, the Healthy at Home newsletter was distributed to partner schools. One family resource coordinator said “This is great information.  Especially since we have been emphasizing the importance of social-emotional wellness with families. I am going to add it to our parent resources.”Kenton County  4-H also expanded the web page to include “4-H at Home Activities.”  One viewer said “Thank you so much for this.  I can start using some of this right away.”  By using innovative programming youth can be included in 4-H programming, as well as reap the mental health benefits associated with engagement in positive youth development activities.






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