Success StoryIssues Conference 2020



Issues Conference 2020

Author: Dianna Reed

Planning Unit: Johnson County CES

Major Program: Leadership

Plan of Work: Youth Life Skills

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the County Extension Council, 4-H Program Council, local volunteers and Extension personnel were tasked with continuing to provide resources and programs to assist our communities. The 4-H State Special Projects Co-ordinator spoke to County 4-H Extension Agents, youth and community members to develop an online Issues Leadership Conference program to help our youth stay engaged, learn the civic process for community issues and continue to develop their leadership skills. Following COVID protocols, the 2021 4-H Issues Leadership Conference was held in a combination in-person and virtual format. Youth gained knowledge of the civic process for addressing community issues, and practiced applying their knowledge by developing action plans and making presentations to a mock Fiscal Court. In addition, they were enabled to apply for grants to implement their projects when returning to their communities. Johnson County youth representatives served in LEadership roles on the planning committee and followed through in those leadership roles by implementing and facilitating the program for the duration of the conference. In asking these youth how the activities helped in their personal development, they responded, "No matter what things you do, communication and public speaking skills are so important, and this role has helped me grow in those skills while gaining confidence, and will continue to help me daily. " Another participant communicated, "It taught me how to open up and become a more outgoing person, as well as how to step up and take charge in a leadership position when needed."






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