In order to attain experiences that aid in positive development, it is important for youth to be engaged learners. Researchers and practitioners have identified core competencies for quality programming (Eccles & Gootman, 2002; National 4-H Impact Assessment, 2001; Search Institute, 2004). In addition, Experiential Learning Theory has been applied to a variety of contexts. Although a number of models exist, the common foundational theme is that the human experience aids significantly in the learning process (Dewey, 1938; Kolb, 1984). However, it is critical to note that learning is enriched when educators provide learning environments that allow reflection and application (Enfield, Schmitt-McQuitty, & Smith, 2007).  

Meade County 4-H Youth Development collaborated with Fayette County 4-H, and Mason County 4-H and Horticulture to provide a 10-week, virtual program for 22 youth, ages 9-18.  This multi-county, multi-district, 4-H program, "Learn, Grow, Eat & Go (LGEG)" program focused on home-gardening, healthy recipes and fun physical activity.  Each week, participants received a take-home kit that went along with the virtual meeting topic of the week.  Topics included, but were not limited to:  what a plant needs to grow, plant parts, garden planting charts, MyPlate, and container gardening.  Each week, the kits contained most supplies needed for the lesson and gardening activity.  Participants also received SNAP-ed recipes to support the vegetable of the week or the vegetable they were beginning to grow.  Vegetables grown by the participants included: herbs, squash, snow peas, turnips, lettuce, and spinach.  Each week's lesson was further supported by a literacy component using read aloud, online books using youtube videos; these books were identified in the LGEG curriculum.

Participants completed a pre and post evaluation and at the conclusion of the program, all 22 indicated:

1.  they were not previously familiar with either container gardening or gardening outside.

2. they could now identify the majority of the parts of a plant

3. learned how to make healthier choices about what they eat

4. know what MyPlate is and how to use it to create a healthy meal

5.  successfully harvest vegetables from their home garden

6.  and learned skills they could use in their everyday life.

From this program youth learned valuable gardening skills, a few new recipes, how to problem solve and critical thinking skills, and met new 4-H'ers from across the commonwealth.