LIFE SKILLS FOCUS TEAM SAMPLES

Situation for Life Skills ProgramBased on most recent census data, there are approximately __________ youth ages 5-18 living in __________County. Currently, __________ County 4-H uses a variety of program delivery modes to teach life skills to youth, including community clubs, project clubs, workshops, clinics, camps, and competitive events. These delivery modes reach an average of __________ youth each year (__________% of the county’s youth population), with a minimum of 6-hours of face-to-face teaching (either by the 4-H agent, program assistant or trained 4-H volunteers). Life skills specifically targeted for this program, identified by the 4-H advisory committees, are in: 1) Healthy Lifestyles, 2) Science, Engineering, and Technology, and 3) Citizenship, Communication and Leadership.Research findings found that compared to other youth, 4-H members are more likely to be involved as leaders in their school and community, be looked up to as role models by other kids, and to help others in their communities. The study also found that 4-H members are less likely to shoplift or steal, use illegal drugs, vandalize public or private property, or skip school without permission (Astroth, K. and Haynes, G. The Montana Impact Study, Montana State University, 2001). When compared to children who participate in non-4-H related out-of-school activities (sports, Scouting, etc), 6th graders currently participating in 4-H clubs and after-school programs are 1.6 times more likely to enroll in college. Children who had participated in 4-H for at least one year by 8th grade are about 3.5 more likely to contribute to their families, self, and communities. They are also 1.3 times more likely to be on the lowest trajectories for both depressive symptoms and or risk/delinquent behaviors. (Source: Tufts University Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development).

Objectives for Life Skills:__ percent of ____ youth will report adopting at least three best practices for attaining healthy life skills as a result of workshops, day camps, and project curricula measured through pre/post tests, project reports, and skill-a-thon scores.

__ percent of ____ youth will demonstrate an increase in knowledge or skills related to science, engineering, and technology as a result of field days, workshops, day camps, or project curricula measured through pre/post tests, project reports, and skill-a- thon scores.

__ percent of ___ youth will demonstrate an increase in knowledge or skills related to citizenship, leadership, and communication as a result of workshops, competitive events, and project curricula and measured through pre/post tests, teacher and parent surveys, and project reports.

Educational Activities and Methods:In ________ County, there is _____full-time 4-H agent, and ____ other Extension agents that contribute ___% of their time teaching 4-H life skills. In addition, there are _____full time volunteers that lead 4-H clubs, and ____ project leaders and ____ teen volunteers that offer guidance for 4-H projects and activities. Life skills are taught through 4-H club meetings, competitive events, school enrichment, day and residential camps, and other educational programs.

4-H club meetings are led by 4-H volunteers, and each club is required to have planned educational programs at each meeting. 4-H clubs are also the vehicle through which youth learn leadership skills and how to run a business meeting. Clubs are also required to complete at least one service project each year which teaches good citizenship and compassion for others.

Competitive events allow 4-Hers to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have learned through their 4-H projects. Competition also allows youth to learn decision making skills, public presentation skills, and good sportsmanship. Competition is available for youth 8-18 at the club, county, district, state, and national levels.

School enrichment includes programs that are delivered through the public and private school system. This delivery method allows youth with limited resources access to 4-H. Currently, ________ County offers _____ educational activities through this delivery mode: 4-H/Tropicana Public Speaking Program, 4-H Ag Awareness, and _____________.

Camping is another delivery mode that teaches life skills. Camps are usually held on non-school days and cover a variety of project areas. Camps include a cumulative of 6-hours or more of educational activities in specific subject matter curricula.

Other educational programs may include field trips, tours, workshops, and clinics. Support materials for this Extension Program include:

____ fact sheets ____ project guides ___ web site, U-Tube, Facebook ___ newsletter (___ issues/year) Officer handbooks Member enrollment guide (updated annually) School enrichment enrollment guides Camp marketing materials (brochures, posters, website) ___ marketing materials

Sample Healthy Lifestyles Program Objective__ percent of ____ youth will report adopting at least three best practices for attaining healthy life skills as a result of workshops, day camps, and project curricula measured through pre/post tests, project reports, and skill-a-thon scores.Sample Outcome or Impact StatementIn ______ County, _____% of adults are overweight and ____% are obese (2002 County Behavioral Risk Factor Survey). In 2003, almost ____% of _______ County youth screened were at risk of being overweight and _____% were overweight (______ County Health Department). This data exceeds state averages for overweight youth. A quality, hands-on educational program was needed to combat this issue in order to prevent future chronic health problems related to overweight and obesity such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Based on input from the 4-H Advisory Committee, and in partnership with the ______County Health Department, a healthy lifestyles program was implemented in _____ and in the last four years, has reached over _____ youth. As a result of the program, ____% of youth demonstrated knowledge gained about the USDA MyPyramid Food Guide and correct portion size. When asked what they thought they could do to be healthier, ____% of ____ youth responded with comments such as: drink less soda, drink more water, eat more fruits and vegetables, get more sleep, watch less TV/video games, read the food label. One parent reported that as a result of this program, their child decided to limit herself to only one sweet snack per day. On average, program participants reported increasing their daily activity by 32.6 minutes per day.

In collaboration with the _______ County Health Department, 4-H implemented a tobacco prevention program in 2007. This program reached ____ youth. As a result of the program, ___% reported that they planned on encouraging others (friends or family) to quit smoking or chewing tobacco. _____% reported that they felt more prepared to deflect peer pressure to smoke or chew tobacco, and ____ youth signed SWAT Pledge cards, pledging to abstain from

using tobacco products. Abstaining from the use of tobacco products will help these youth prevent many forms of cancer and respiratory illnesses. Compared to a bike crash, an ATV crash is 12 times more likely to kill a child. ATVs are involved in 38,000 injuries and 100 deaths to children each year. The lack of knowledge of safety requirements is an issue. In 2005, a community ATV safety program was implemented utilizing youth~adult partnerships and in collaboration with local government and business organizations. Since then, this program has reached ____ youth. ______ youth have completed a six hour class on ATV safety, and ____ of them received ATV helmets. Six weeks after an ATV safety program, one of the teen leaders reported that as a result of the program, she was able to deflect peer pressure to ride double on an ATV with a friend.

Because ______ County is rich in natural resources, hunting is a favorite recreational activity for many youth and families. In 2004, a shooting sports program was implemented to help youth learn shooting sports safety for rifle and archery. Over the last five years, this program has reached ____ youth. Pre and post tests indicate that as a result of the program, ____% of youth now know the parts of the gun/bow and arrow, and how to properly shoot. ______ percent of youth reported that they now have a new respect for shooting sports equipment and the natural environment, and ____% stated that as a result of the program, they plan to use proper range safety when shooting a gun or bow and arrow.

_____percent of _____ youth will demonstrate an increase in knowledge or skills related to science, engineering, and technology as a result of field days, workshops, day camps, or project curricula measured through pre/post tests, project reports, and skill-a- thon scores.

One of the ways that citizens in Florida pollute our ecosystem is through over-use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizer. As a result of entomology programs, ___% of ____ participants were able to correctly key insects to the order, and ___% were able to name at least three types of integrated pest management tools. _______ percent were able to correctly distinguish beneficial insects from pests, and ____% of ___ participants were able to successfully identify the five parts of an insect.

As a result of gardening programs, ___ youth were able to demonstrate how to select the appropriate site for both ornamental and vegetable crops; ___% of the youth demonstrated proper techniques for watering, fertilizing, and monitoring pests by planning, planting, and maintaining a 100-square foot garden as part of their 4-H gardening project.

Because of Florida’s rich aquatic resources, a sports fishing education program was implemented in 2006 to teach youth basic angling skills and ethics. This year, this program reached ____ youth. As a result, ___% of youth learned that they need a fishing license if over the age of 16. ______ percent learned how to identify the parts of a rod and reel and ____% learned how to identify various types of lures and their specific use. ______ percent learned how to correctly identify at least 10 species of local fish, and ___% reported that they will check to make sure that the fish they are catching is “legal” or “in season.”

As a result of agriculture awareness programs, __% of ____ youth reported an increase in knowledge about what agriculture is, and the role it plays in their daily lives. In pre/post tests, ___% of the students indicated that their knowledge had increased for three or more of the targeted agricultural commodities. Six months after the field trip, ___% of the students remembered the definition of agriculture and could cite 5 ways that agriculture improves their quality of life.

4-H Science, Engineering, and Technology skills (SET) are necessary for productive work in the 21st century economy (Kane, Berryman, Golsen, & Meltzer, 1993) because it represents a

broad field of careers; however most young people do not have the SET skills needed for careers in the 21st century. Nationwide, only 18% of high school seniors are considered proficient in science (NAEP, 2000), while a mere 5% of today’s college undergraduates earn degrees in science and engineering (Rising above the Gathering Storm, 2006). 4-H rocketry, robotics, energy, and mechanical science programs were implemented to help increase youth’s science literacy and interest in science-related fields of study. This year, these programs reached ___ youth. ____ percent were able to demonstrate knowledge gained about the three laws of motion either by building a rocket, solar-powered car, or motorized car. _____ percent of ___ youth were able to effectively design, build, and launch at least 2 types of rockets and use an inclinometer and basic mathematical formulas to calculate the distance their rockets traveled. As a result of these programs, a robotics club was formed to teach ___ youth how to design a computer program for a simple robot to complete an obstacle course. An end-of the year survey revealed that ____% of ___ youth felt that learning about science was fun.

_______ participated in the 4-H/Tropicana Public Speaking Program this year. ___ percent of ___ youth surveyed reported that the program helped them improve their ability to make a public presentation, and ___% reported that their ability to clearly state their thoughts, feelings, and ideas improved. When asked what was the most important thing they felt they learned from the experience, ___% replied: I learned to be more confident, and less nervous in front of a group. _____ percent of ___parents reported that the program helped their child improve his/her ability to make a public presentation, and ___% reported that the program helped their child to be more confident. When asked what was the most important thing they felt their child had learned as a result of the program, ___% of parents responded: More self-confidence.

_____ percent of ______ youth will demonstrate an increase in knowledge or skills related to citizenship, leadership, and communication as a result of workshops, competitive events, and project curricula and measured through pre/post tests, teacher and parent surveys, and project reports.

In a year end survey of club members, ____% of ___ youth who participated in one or more competitive event, reported a moderate to high level of skills in preparing and presenting public presentations. ____ percent of youth also reported an improved level of self confidence in speaking, writing, or listening as a result of 4-H experiences.

Based on advisory committee input, etiquette and grooming programs were implemented in 2007. This year, these programs reached __ youth and as a result, ___% of ___ youth surveyed demonstrated knowledge gained about how to set and use formal table settings, and __% demonstrated the correct way to make formal introductions and shake hands. _____ percent demonstrated the proper procedure for displaying and folding the American flag, and ___% demonstrated knowledge gained in good sportsmanship behavior. ____ percent of ___ parents surveyed reported that as a result of 4H etiquette programs, their child demonstrated increased awareness of proper etiquette when dining at a restaurant.

In an effort to increase diversity awareness within the _____ County 4-H program, the Expansion and Review Committee implemented a diversity program that reached ___ youth. As a result, __% were able to describe and explain significant characteristics of Latino/Hispanic, African American, and Asian/Pacific Islander ethnic groups and ___% were able to observe and identify some cultural aspects of Latino/Hispanic, African American, and Asian/Pacific Islander ethnic groups. _____ percent were able to analyze and evaluate similarities and differences of ethnic groups (food, clothing, language, celebrations, art, etc) against their own culture, and __% were able to recognize common stereotypes at school and in the media (print, TV, and internet). ____ percent were able to demonstrate at least one new skill for discouraging stereotypes and ___% were able to demonstrate at least 2 new conflict resolution techniques.

Studies show that one of the most critical times for people to learn financial literacy skills is when they are in middle school. To date, financial literacy programs offered through the ______ County 4-H program have reached _____ youth. As a result:

____% demonstrated knowledge gained about the difference between gross income and net income

____% demonstrated knowledge gained about how to write and record a check. ____% demonstrated knowledge gained about how to reconcile a bank statement. ____% were able to correctly distinguish between needs and wants and develop a

budget to fit their current allowance/income.

Sample 4-H ObjectivesSample Life Skills Objectives- National Mission Mandates__ percent of ____ youth will report adopting at least three best practices for attaining healthy life skills as a result of workshops, day camps, and project curricula measured through pre/post tests, project reports, and skill-a-thon scores.__ percent of ____ youth will demonstrate an increase in knowledge or skills related to science, engineering, and technology as a result of field days, workshops, day camps, or project curricula measured through pre/post tests, project reports, and skill-a- thon scores.__ percent of ___ youth will demonstrate an increase in knowledge or skills related to citizenship, leadership, and communication as a result of workshops, competitive events, and project curricula and measured through pre/post tests, teacher and parent surveys, and project reports.Life Skills Objective- Health Rocks/Up for the Challenge___ percent of ___youth will demonstrate healthy food choices and increased levels of positive activities promoting physical exercise to develop improved practices for personal safety and health as a result of the 4-H Health Rocks/Up for the Challenge program as indicated by pre/post evaluation surveys.Life Skills Objective- Club Members____ percent of ___ 4-H club members will report learning valuable life skills such as positive decision making, self-motivation and responsibility as a direct result of 4-H club programming, competitive and noncompetitive events. Life Skills Objective ---Beyond Club Experiences_____ percent of _____ club members will participate in one or more beyond club experiential learning events in order to increase their skill development in one of the following areas: service to others, confidence to speak in public, decision making skills, or leadership skills, as reported in the ____________ County annual 4-H impact report.Life Skills Objective- Interpersonal skills-- Tolerance, Diversity and Respect for Others ____ percent of ____ youth will learn valuable interpersonal skills such as getting along with others, practicing an appreciation for diversity, and respecting others’ opinions as a result of 4-H club programming, camping experiences or workshops over the course of the 4-H year as measured by a post-satisfaction survey. School Enrichment- General_____ percent of ______ 5th grade students will participate in at least one classroom based 4-H School Enrichment program as evidenced by group enrollment forms and as reported on the ES237 annual report.___ percent of ___ youth ages 5-18 will acquire and demonstrate improved life skills in order to determine basic needs, use given information to solve problems, and establish responsible behaviors as a result of engaging in at least one 4-H in the Classroom program during the 2009 program year as indicated by pre/post evaluation surveys.School Enrichment- Tropicana_____ percent of_____ 3rd-6th grade youth will increase their oral and written communication skills as a result of participation in the 4-H/Tropicana Public Speaking Program and as reported through post-reflective surveys by students, parents, and teachers. School Enrichment- Ag in the Classroom

_____ percent of _____ 5th grade youth will gain knowledge about the importance of agriculture and its impact on daily life as reported through pre and post tests. Life Skills Objective- Camp_____ percent of_____ youth will report an increase in one or more of the following interpersonal skills: self responsibility, cooperation, respect for diversity, or decision making as a result of their participation in the 4-H residential camping program measured by an end of camp survey. _____ percent of _____ youth, ages 14-18 will gain leadership skills and knowledge as a result of participation in the 4-H counselor program as reported by a self-reflective survey. Life Skills Objective- Diversity___ percent of ___ 4-H community club members will report that 4-H offers opportunities to meet people from different cultures or ethnic backgrounds as measured by an end of the year survey.___ percent of ____ 4-H community club members will report that 4-H provides a safe inclusive environment for people of different cultures as measured by an end of the year survey.

Sample Volunteer Development Objectives___ percent of ___ volunteers will report that their knowledge and attitude about Affirmative Action has improved as a result of Affirmative Action volunteer training as measured by a post self-reflective survey.”___ percent of ___ volunteers will report that 4-H offers opportunities to meet people of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds as measured by an end of the year survey.”___ percent of __ volunteers will report that the standards for Affirmative Action have been exceeded in their club as a result of Affirmative Action training and as reported on the Affirmative Action ReportAnnually, 100% of ___ youth and adult volunteers will provide safe and secure environments for ______ County youth by completing the application, screening, training, appointment, and evaluation process in compliance with UF/IFAS 4-H Extension Policies.Annually, ___ percent of ____ youth and adult volunteers will learn how to create safe and supportive environments for youth by completing a minimum of 20 hours of training on risk management, experiential learning, and program planning.______ percent of _____ volunteers will learn how to provide safe and secure environments for youth enrolled in the Florida 4-H Shooting Sports program, by completing a minimum of 20 hours of hands-on training on topics such as risk management, experiential learning, and positive coaching techniques, as measured by pre and post certification tests and certification diplomas.

_____ Percent of _____ volunteers will learn how to provide safe and secure environments for youth engaged in overnight 4-H experiences by completing a minimum of 6-hours of hands-on training on topics such as chaperone roles and responsibilities, respecting diversity, and risk management, as measured by the Florida 4-H Chaperone Certification test and certification diplomas.

Sample Organizational Development Objectives

Three new clubs will be developed in underserved communities (Cloverdale, Clover woods, and Green Forest) as a result of 4-H Expansion and Review Committee ethnic marketing strategies and recruitment efforts, as reported on the Annual Affirmative Action report and reflected in the Expansion and Review Committee Minutes.A minimum of six newly identified local businesses, organizations and individuals will increase their knowledge and support of 4-H as a result of assisting in the improved delivery of 4-H programming to deliver educational enhancement to youth as indicated by collaborating annually with or providing materials and/or financial resources to the ______County 4-H Council.

___ percent of ____ 4-H clubs in _____County will achieve parity as a result of Affirmative Action training and All reasonable efforts, as reported by the Annual Affirmative Action Report.____ percent of ___ 4-H Clubs in ______ County will exceed or meet Affirmative Action standards as a result of an All Reasonable Efforts Campaign, as documented and reported on the Annual Affirmative Action Report. The ______ County 4-H Council will expand delivery of 4-H Extension programming as a result of increased awareness in school age children and their parents and amplify community support of the 4-H program by 10% annually as indicated by the measurement of annual enrollment on the ES237 Federal Report. Over the next year, 4-H Advisory Committee membership will increase by 25% (2 members) and these new members will represent a citizen demographic that is currently either not represented or under-represented on the committee, as reflected in advisory committee minutes and membership roster.Through the efforts of 4-H faculty and/or volunteers, at least one new collaboration will be formed with the ________ county 4-H program that serves an under-represented group for the purpose of expanding 4-H opportunities to minorities. Ninety-percent, or 35 out of 39 clubs will be retained between the 2009-2010 program year as evidenced by the ES237 annual report. Eighty percent of 20 clubs will achieve the bronze level Club Standard of Excellence or higher as evidenced by completing 12 out of the 20 standards for quality club achievement and as reported in the _______ county Awards and Recognition Program.

A. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:

As a result of 4-H programming young people should gain meaningful life-skills that will help them as adolescence face challenges at school, home, and in a competitive world; also they will gain skills that will help them as adults to be productive and involved members of their communities and society as a whole. As a result of experiential learning through participating in 4-H projects, activities, and learning experiences, young people ages 5-18 will:

1. 80% of 4-H community club members will develop leadership skills as evidenced by teaching and helping others, by participating in community club meetings and activities, by holding offices in their clubs, and in County, District and State 4-H Council, by organizing local 4-H events and through mentoring younger 4-H members.

2. 75% of 4-H community club members will develop a sense of citizenship, including an understanding of the order and philosophy behind the structure of their family, their communities, their state, their country, and their world as evidenced by participation in community service activities, leader and parent surveys, and completion of citizenship projects. This will eventually lead to youth to find their role in our American society as productive, involved citizens.

3. 75% of 4-H community club members will develop written and verbal communication skills, gain a working understanding of the basic communication process, and practice audience analysis as demonstrated by preparing and presenting speeches, demonstrations, illustrated talks, satisfactorily completing record books, and achievement portfolios.

4. 80 % of 4-H community club members will develop skills and knowledge specific to topics related to 4-H project work including animal science, plant science, family and consumer science, environmental science, agricultural literacy, science and technology, work force preparation, and healthy lifestyle choices as evidenced by demonstrating knowledge gained and skills learned related to project areas through their record books, demonstrations, and level of achievement in a project area as evidenced by satisfactory completion of project work compared to pre-established standards of excellence.

5. As a result of participation in 4-H, 85% of 4-H community club members will increase self-esteem through participation and accomplishment of goals based on pre-established standards of excellence; and through understanding their own talents, skills, and gifts as evidenced by record book narratives, portfolio narratives and parent, youth, and leader response.

B. EDUCATIONAL METHODS AND ACTIVITIES

The agent, with advisory committee guidance, uses a variety of delivery methods and activities to facilitate Life Skills Development in young people in Gilchrist County. The agent works with 4-H Club leaders and volunteers to stress Life Skills Development through experiential learning. Recognizing that our local youth, like any other audience, have differing learning styles, the agent uses a variety of tools to supplement the Experiential Learning Model, which is the primary delivery mode in 4-H youth development. The agent strives to follow (or supplement) the Experiential

Learning Model in most of the educational activities employed in Life Skills Development. As per National 4-H Guidelines that are research based, experiential learning allows young people to 1. Experience an activity; 2. Share results; 3. Process results by discussing or reflecting; 4. Generalizing to connect the experience to real-world applications; and 5. Apply or put in practice skills learned to other situations. Following is a breakdown of educational efforts and activities to promote Life Skills Development, broken out by objective.

Table 1: Educational Efforts for Life Skills Development and Enhancement, 2004-2009:

Type Number* (Agent/Volunteers) Participants/Contacts

Workshops/Classes 425/211 12,183

Supporting Activities 143/7 3,995

4-H Club Meetings 153/1319 19,725

*Examples of topics covered include judging contest practices, day camps, officer trainings, guitar classes, wood turning classes, sewing classes, cooking classes, livestock fitting and grooming clinics, etc.

Table 2: Summary of Clientele Reached for Lifeskills Development and Enhancement, 2004-2009:

Number of Educational Materials Developed 344

Number of Educational Materials Distributed 44,300

Number of Client Contact: 9,126

Field consultations 627

Office consultations 2,343

Telephone consultations 4,154

e-mail consultations 1,545

Web site visits 457

METHOD FOR OBJECTIVE 1: 80% of 4-H community club members will develop leadership skills as evidenced by teaching and helping others, by participating in community club meetings and activities, by holding offices in their clubs, and in County, District and State 4-H Council, by organizing local 4-H events and through mentoring younger 4-H members.

Youth learn and demonstrate leadership, including use of Roberts Rules of Order, in Club, County Council, Honor Club, and District Meetings

Youth participate in workshops on 4-H portfolios and achievement awards Youth participate in officer training workshops Youth participate in parliamentary procedure workshops Youth gain leadership knowledge and experience through participating on various

judging teams, including livestock, dairy, poultry, consumer choices and agriculture judging and quiz bowl activities

Our top youth leaders attend and gain further leadership skills at Florida 4-H Congress

Our youth gain leadership skills and demonstrate leadership at 4-H Camp through serving as junior counselors.

METHOD FOR OBJECTIVE 2: Develop a sense of Citizenship, including an understanding of the order and philosophy behind the structure of their family, their communities, their state, their country, and their world. They should learn the basic structure of local, state, and federal government and their role in our American society as productive, involved citizens. Youth should demonstrate citizenship through community involvement and service to their local community.

Youth practice good citizenship and gain a sense of belonging in 4-H Club Meetings, County Council Meetings, Honor Club Meetings, and District Council Meetings

Youth Participate in various service projects, including the 4-H Million Trees Project, canned food drives, Light the Night Walks, as well as Community Pride Projects

Youth demonstrate citizenship and help promote 4-H locally by actively participating in events like the 4-H Scare Crow Contest, and Flag Day Celebrations

METHOD FOR OBJECTIVE 3: Develop Communication Skills, including written and verbal communication. They should understand the basic communication process, as well as audience analysis. Preparing and presenting speeches, demonstrations, illustrated talks, record books, and achievement portfolios as well as attending associated workshops will help participants develop and demonstrate communication skills.

Youth learn and enhance communications skills as they actively participate in 4-H Club Meetings, County Council Meetings, Honor Club, and District Council Meetings

Youth learn communication skills through participating in demonstration workshops and record book workshops

Youth demonstrate communication skills through participating in County Events, District Events, and 4-H Congress

Youth learn and demonstrate communication skills by completing 4-H record books

METHOD FOR OBJECTIVE 4: Develop skills and knowledge specific to topics

related to 4-H project work, including animal science, plant science, family and consumer science, environmental science, agricultural literacy, science and technology, work force preparation, and healthy lifestyle choices. Youth should demonstrate knowledge gained and skills learned related to project areas through their record books, demonstrations, and level of achievement in a project area as evidenced by satisfactory completion of project work compared to pre-established standards of excellence.

Youth learn valuable project related skills at 4-H Club Meetings

Individual Consultations about 4-H Projects

Youth demonstrate and enhance project related skills at fairs and exhibitions and judging contests

Youth attend a variety of workshops, classes, day camps, and short courses including:

o Woodturning Classes

o Guitar Classes

o Dairy Quiz Bowl

o Dairy Day Camps

o Garden Workshops

o Dairy Cattle Showmanship Clinic

o Sewing Day Camps

o Hunter Safety Day Camp

o 4-H Camp Cherry Lake and Camp Ocala

o Laying Hen Workshop and Care of Baby Chicks/Laying Hen Project

o 4-H Embryology School Enrichment

o Nutrition and Food Safety Workshops

o Livestock Show Ethics Seminar-Florida State Fair

o First Aide Training and Certification for 4-Hers

o Hog Health and Nutrition Classes

o Moola Venture Money Day Camp

o Plant Connections Day Camp

o Shooting Sports Events and Activities

o Seminole Garden Project

o Sears Poultry Project

o Youth Ag Safety Day

METHOD FOR OBJECTIVE 5: Increase Self-Esteem through success in the previously mentioned areas, to develop a sense of pride through participation and accomplishment of goals based on pre-established standards of excellence; and through understanding their own talents, skills, and gifts.

Youth enhance self esteem by actively participating and being a part of 4-H Club Meetings, County Council Meetings, Honor Club, and District Council Meetings

As 4-Hers excel in their projects and achieve project goals, they are recognized at the 4-H Awards Banquets and through earning various other awards

Successfully staying at 4-H Camp Cherry Lake/Camp Ocala-some youth gain self esteem by staying away from home for the first time

C. OUTCOMES AND IMPACTS

The agent uses a variety of methods to determine outcomes and impacts, including pre/post tests, surveys, as well as phone and personal interviews of parents, leaders, and youth. Also the agent uses record book story narratives, and the 4-H Portfolio and Achievement Program. Also ribbon color is used to evaluate the level of mastery for particular projects,competitions, exhibitions, record books, and demonstrations/illustrated talks.

OUTCOMES AND IMPACTS OBJECTIVE 1:

65% of all 4-H Club Officers in Gilchrist County have completed a Leadership Training Day in October 2006, 2007, and 2008. Of the 84 participants, about 93% indicated that they would use group problem solving strategies learned at the training in their club meetings. 100% of participants indicated they gained leadership skills by participating in the day-long workshop.

At least five parents have indicated that their high school seniors are attending college and even receiving scholarships thanks to leadership skills and subject matter expertise they gained through actively participating in 4-H. In a personal letter, one parent indicated that without 4-H her daughter wouldn’t have had direction, and thanks to 4-H she is now enrolling as a freshman at UF with a scholarship. Another family indicated their daughter was extremely shy and reclusive until she became involved in 4-H. Her leadership skills have allowed her to go on to become County Council president and enroll early at Santa Fe Community College.

4-H Club Leaders indicate that as a result of leadership development of club officers, 4-H business meetings follow parliamentary procedure in 13 of 17 4-H clubs in the county (about 80%).

Attendance at the monthly County Council Meetings has increased an average of 20 % since 2006 and County Officers are using parliamentary procedure and group problem-solving strategies to achieve goals and make decisions in meetings.

In the last year, 72 4-Hers have attended a workshop on 4-H Portfolios and the 4-H Achievement Awards program. (Gilchrist County is implementing the new Achievement Awards program created by the State 4-H Office.) Not only will participation in this program help 4-Hers capture and get rewarded for their hard

work in 4-H, it will potentially help them earn 4-H and other scholarships as well as national trips in the future.

Two Marion County 4-Hers were selected to participate (with their parents and their 4-H Agent) in a week-long Youth/Adult Partnership training. These young leaders have both went on to be Honor Club Officers and very influential in the Marion County 4-H Program.

Marion County Honor Club had become innefective. Honor Club officers and members were just going through the motions and not really accomplishing anything. The agent trained Honor Club officers and offered guidance as the Honor Club officers and members forged attainable annual goals and adopted a youth-led service project (the Light-the-Night walk for Lymphoma and Leukemia). Also Honor Club motivated 4-Hers from all over Marion County to collect and distribute over $20,000.00 worth of groceries for needy families over two years.

Two Gilchrist County teens have served on the State Executive Board and have been a part of the 4-H Congress Planning Committee.

Three 4-H County Council Presidents have given presentations at County Commission Meetings and Rotary Club Meetings to promote 4-H locally.

OUTCOMES AND IMPACTS OBJECTIVE 2:

Of the 4-Hers participating in the Citizenship Project in Gilchrist County since 2006, 100% earned a blue ribbon (>90% score) on their record book and earned a project pin.

20 4-Hers participated in a Flag Day celebration. 100% of the 20 participating 4-H members learned about the history of our flag, flag etiquette, about the symbolism on the flag and made flags to reflect and symbolize their families.

Through participation in 4-H club business meetings, County Council Meetings and District IV 4-H Council meetings, 4-Hers not only hone their leadership skills, but they learn about the basic governing of a business meeting, as well as 4-H government and hierarchy. Also many club meetings promote a 4-Hers role as a good steward of his or her resources and to make the most out of their position in the world. As 4-Hers pledge their Heads, Hearts, Hands, and Health to their club, their community, their country, and their world, they are recognizing their place in the world around them and learning how to make the best better.

For two years Marion County Honor Club participated in the national Light the Night Walk program to benefit Leukemia and Lymphoma research. Each year over 15 participants from Marion County Honor Club solicited sponsors and participated in the walk and helped the community raise over $100,000 each year for cancer research.

For two years Marion County 4-H sponsored a food drive to help needy families in the county. Participants filled brown paper bags with a pre-determined list of groceries that would provide staple groceries for a family of four for up to a week

(things like rice, beans, tuna, peanut butter, etc.). In two years over 1000 such bags representing over $20,000 worth of groceries were obtained and distributed by 4-H.

OUTCOMES AND IMPACTS OBJECTIVE 3:

90% of all 4-H members have done at least one demonstration or illustrated talk at least once a year for their club peers since 2004 in both Marion and Gilchrist Counties.

Since 2004, over 450 4-Hers who present demonstrations or illustrated talks or speeches in their local 4-H club go on to compete with their demonstration, illustrated talk, or speech at County Events. At County Events the young person is judged based on a standard of excellence and he or she receives a ribbon based on their achievement. A blue ribbon represents a score of 90 or above out of a possible 100 points. In 2007, 35 of 52 participants who competed in either a demonstration, illustrated talk, or speech category earned a blue ribbon (67%). This represents an increase in the percent of blue ribbons from 61% in 2006. Also the total number of demonstrations, illustrated talks and speeches increased in 2007 to 52 from 47 the year before. (These numbers do not reflect other events at county events such as fashion revue or share the fun). Since 2004, 344 out of 549 4-Hers competing with a demonstration, illustrated talk, or speech at County Events in Gilchrist and Marion Counties has earned a blue ribbon (about 63 %).

4-H District Events is an opportunity for winners at County Events to advance and compete with the winners from other counties in their 4-H District. Since 2006, Gilchrist County has been very well represented at District Events as over 300 4-Hers won their categories at District Events.

In two years in Marion County and three years in Gilchrist County, a total of 59 senior 4-Hers participated in 4-H Congress from Marion and Gilchrist Counties under the agent and 21 earned blue ribbons at 4-H Congress.

OUTCOMES AND IMPACTS OBJECTIVE 4:

At the Suwannee River Youth Fair, exhibitors show livestock animals they raise as part of a 4-H project; exhibit crafts, sewing, and canned goods created as part of family and consumer science projects, and participate in livestock, dairy, poultry, and consumer choices judging contests. Exhibitors earn ribbons and other awards based on achievement of reaching a pre-determined standard of excellence.

The Florida State Fair offers 4-Hers an opportunity to showcase livestock animals they have raised as part of a 4-H project, as well as participation in the Champion Youth Program where youth earn points based on a series of learning experiences including showing their animals, participating in “Ask Me Booths” where youth answer the general public’s questions about their animal, poster contests, speech contests, and skill-a-thons.

The North Florida Fair is open to counties from the Big Bend region of Florida through the Florida Panhandle. Like other fair, 4-Hers can exhibit livestock

animals and family and consumer science projects and can compete in judging contests. In 2008 Gilchrist County had the winning intermediate Agriculture Judging Team and the third place Senior Consumer Choices Judging Team. In 2007, Gilchrist County had the high individual senior in Consumer Choices Judging, as well as the first place Intermediate team and first place Junior team. Gilchrist County also had the third place Junior team for Agricultural Judging. Gilchrist County by far had the most exhibits in the Home Arts exhibits with most 4-Hers earning a blue ribbon for excellence. Many of these exhibits also earned rosettes for first place in their category. Also many 4-Hers from Gilchrist County earned blue ribbons and rosettes for their dairy cattle, beef cattle, and goat exhibits.

As a result of participating in the first-ever Gilchrist County 4-H Laying Hen Project in 2006, 12 4-Hers learned how to grow and care for 15 brown-egg producing newly hatched pullets. The 4-Hers raised these birds to production and are currently caring for their laying flocks. In December, 4-Hers chose their best three birds from their laying flock to participate in a poultry show. Since then over 30 other youth have participated in the project, with 17 signed up to participate in 2009. The benefits from this project are: 4-Hers learned how to raise and care for chickens; 4-Hers learned how to judge their birds to determine their best three hens; 4-Hers learned how to grow their own eggs for home use; some 4-Hers are marketing their eggs as a home egg business; 4-Hers have added high-quality protein to their families’ diets as a result of the eggs produced; 4-Hers have adopted several egg recipes and learned how to safely and deliciously prepare their eggs (from personal interviews and surveys). Three of the participants since 2006 have gone on to create their own cottage industry selling fresh brown eggs locally which has earned them over $1,000 each.

Participation in the intense week-long sewing day camps bonds young people with mature (mostly elderly) members of the local quilting club and the youth/adult interaction is priceless. Not only do our sewing day camp participants learn about the ins and outs of proper sewing techniques, sewing machine operation, and safety, our participants also make friendships with peers and with experienced older sewers that transcend mere sewing. Our young people enter their finished products in such competitions as the North Florida Fair and Suwannee River Youth Fair, and Gilchrist County usually does very well in the home arts divisions of these fairs thanks in part to our sewing day camps.

The ability to grow one’s own food is an extremely important skill. Through 4-H young people in Gilchrist and Marion Counties have learned to produce eggs, milk, vegetables, pork, beef, chicken, and fruit. Not only would such skills be beneficial in times of turmoil or disaster, but the nutritional and flavor qualities of home-grown foods often outweighs commercially grown foods. Even when looked upon as hobby activities, growing one’s own food helps promote good health, encourages exercise, and also promotes mental wellbeing. Quite often this also encourages families to work together to bring a crop or animal project to fruition.

Gilchrist and Marion County youth have learned as a result of participating in 4-H

projects and activities, how to be quite proficient in the following disciplines: woodworking, sewing, cooking, photography, rocketry, showing dogs, quilting, making wise consumer choices, and how to make wise nutritional decisions, among other things.

Since 2006, Gilchrist County 4-H youth have produced over $51,000 worth of vegetables in their garden projects, over $22,000 worth of eggs in their poultry projects, and well over $100,000 worth of milk in their dairy cattle and dairy goat projects. Just these three projects alone have generated over $173,000 worth of wholesome, highly nutritious food that has mostly been consumed by families with children locally. Some youth have sold excess amounts of eggs and vegetables, making their hobby into a cottage industry, possibly preparing them for a career in production agriculture or preparing them for the world of business.

Since 2004, in Gilchrist and Marion Counties, 4-Hers have submitted over 500 record books on their 4-H projects. Approximately 75% of these books earned a blue ribbon award, which means the youth are developing skills and knowledge specific to topics related to 4-H project work.

OUTCOMES AND IMPACTS OBJECTIVE 5:

In 2008, 2007, and 2006, 100% of Gilchrist County 4-H volunteers surveyed (48 of 48) indicated that 4-H events, activities, and projects act as a major boost to self esteem in participating youth.

In 2006, 100% of Gilchrist County Council members surveyed (14 of 14) indicated that 4-H events, activities, and projects act as a major boost to self-esteem in participating youth.

In 2004-05, Marion County Honor Club members participated in a leadership project as a group. Part of this project was mapping their skills, personality traits, and leadership styles at the beginning, throughout the project, and at the end of the project. Of the 19 youth who completed the entire project, 18 showed a significant increase in understanding their own marketable skills, personality, and leadership style and skills.

PROGRAM TITLE:II. VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT AND DEVELOPMENT

A. SITUATION:Since today’s youth face challenges such as negative peer pressure to experiment with tobacco, alcohol or drugs; the temptation to spend all of their free time in a sedentary manner watching television, playing video games or browsing the internet; and as the world community becomes smaller greater competition for admission to college or quality jobs when they get older, youth need a positive, constructive way to spend their free time. The 4-H program provides youth with a framework to be a part of something that they can feel a sense of belonging to while developing key life skills that will remain an asset to them as individuals throughout their lives and to their communities as youth mature into productive, involved adults. However, in order for the 4-H program to accomplish this impact in the lives of youth there must be caring,

trained, qualified adults willing to donate their time and talents to lead 4-H Clubs and to teach local youth these skills.

Maintaining and expanding a successful 4-H youth development program requires a pool of experienced, dedicated volunteers as well as new volunteers who are willing donate their time and talents to the program. As of 2009 there are 18 active 4-H clubs in Gilchrist County with close to 300 youth members each year. The County has over 40 club leaders and co-leaders, in addition to project and event-specific volunteers. This is an adult to youth ratio of one adult volunteer per 7.5 youth. Ideally there would be about a 1 to 5 adult to youth ratio. Also, currently most of our volunteers are female and ideally more males would volunteer with the 4-H program, since young men identify with male role models. Also as participation from minorities increases, the program will need a more diverse pool of volunteers. Many of our leaders came up through the 4-H program in Gilchrist County as youth. As youth enrollment increases, so also must the number of trained volunteers. Many of the county’s leaders have been in their volunteer roles for some years, but as new people move into the area the program has had to continue to recruit and train a larger volunteer network to serve more young people. As of 2006, Choice Point is used to help screen volunteers.

Target Audience:

Screened, trained adult club leaders and co-leaders in Gilchrist County 4-H Clubs Parents of youth in Gilchrist County 4-H Potential adult volunteers

B. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

Trained, competent, caring volunteers are key for the overall success of any 4-H program. These dedicated and caring individuals help guide youth to success through life-skills development and through sharing experiences, knowledge, and skills with young people. It is imperative for extension staff to work closely with volunteers from the recruitment process through training all the way to implementation and operation of local events, activities, and club meetings. As a result of the agent’s volunteer recruitment and development, the Gilchrist County 4-H Advisory Committee has recommended the following objectives:

1. There will be at least 20 organized and chartered 4-H clubs in the county

2. There will be an increase in the overall number of 4-H volunteers in the county to reflect a 5 to 1 youth to adult ratio (about 60 volunteers)

3. 100% of club leaders and co-leaders will undergo intense screening and training to qualify to work with youth including providing references, personal interviews and ChoicePoint screening

4. 75% of volunteers will be able to identify various learning styles in youth and have a basic understanding of the experiential learning model

5. At least 75% of club leaders and co-leaders will attend monthly volunteer training meetings

6. As a result of volunteer recruitment and development, 4-H enrollment will increase by 10% annually

C. EDUCATIONAL METHODS AND ACTIVITIES:

Introduction:

The agent, with advisory committee input, seeks ways to recruit volunteers to administer 4-H Club meetings, work with youth in project-specific training, chaperone certain 4-H activities and events, serve as judges for events and contests, etc.. The agent uses a variety of methods to recruit new volunteers, including newspaper advertisements, radio spots, talks at community clubs and organizations, flyers, and word-of-mouth exposure of the program. Once recruited, the agent needs to screen and train volunteers. Without our 4-H volunteers, there wouldn’t be a 4-H program in Gilchrist County. Our volunteers are the life-blood of the 4-H program.

Table 1: Educational Efforts for Volunteer Recruitment and Development, 2004-2009.

Type Number* Participants/Contacts

Workshops/Classes 63 1,243

Supporting Activities

14 147

*examples of topics include understanding the experiential learning model; field-dependent vs. field independent learners; understanding the 4-H achievement portfolio system for youth; understanding the structure of 4-H including the relationship between the USDA, the University of Florida, and the Gilchrist County Board of County Commissioners; ways to promote 4-H enrollment and various other 4-H opportunities; 4-H Camp and summer day camps; icebreakers and games to use in clubs

Table 2: Summary of Clientele Reached for Volunteer Recruitment and Development, 2004-09.

Number of Educational Materials Developed: 53

Number of Educational Materials Distributed: 4,715

Number of Clientele Contact: 7,458

Field consultations 219

Office consultations 2,714

Telephone consultations 2,595

e-mail consultations 1,788

Web site visits 142

OBJECTIVE 1: There will be at least 20 organized and chartered 4-H clubs in the county

The agent has utilized local newspaper and radio to advertise volunteer opportunities with Gilchrist County 4-H. The agent has put together a marketing campaign for new volunteers that included a radio/newspaper campaign, 4-H hats, a scarecrow contest, and visibility at local civic organizations and County Commission meetings.

As of 2009, the agent has worked with local club leaders to ensure that 17 4-H clubs in Gilchrist County have a current 4-H Charter from the USDA, National 4-H and the University of Florida.

In 2004-05 in Marion County the agent regularly promoted 4-H volunteerism in local communities by putting up promotional materials and displays at local businesses and at libraries in Ocala and Belleview.

OBJECTIVE 2: There will be an increase in the overall number of 4-H volunteers in the county to reflect a 5 to 1 youth to adult ratio

The agent has utilized displays and personal appearances throughout Gilchrist and Marion Counties to recruiting more adult volunteers. The agent increased the number of adult volunteers in Marion County by over 20 new volunteers per year; in Gilchrist County from about 20 volunteers in 2006 to over 50 in 2009

The agent has utilized local newspaper and radio to advertise volunteer opportunities with Gilchrist County 4-H. The agent has put together a marketing campaign for new volunteers that included a radio/newspaper campaign, 4-H hats, a scarecrow contest, and visibility at local civic organizations and County Commission meetings.

OBJECTIVE 3: 100% of club leaders and co-leaders will undergo intense screening and training to qualify to work with youth including providing references, personal interviews and ChoicePoint screening

As of 2006, Gilchrist County has utilized Choice Point, personal interviews, personal reference checks, and an application process to screen all 4-H Club Leaders and Co-Leaders.

The agent worked in Marion County to promote the adoption of Choice Point as a means of screening volunteers.

In Marion County in 2004 and 2005, the agent utilized the Marion County Sheriff’s Office to screen potential and current volunteers.

OBJECTIVE 4: 75% of volunteers will be able to identify various learning styles in

youth and have a basic understanding of the experiential learning model

The agent taught all Gilchrist County 4-H Club Leaders and Co-Leaders at a four-part training on club organization, meeting structure, youth learning styles and youth development. This curriculum coincided with the Gilchrist County 4-H Leader Handbook which the agent put together for all leaders and co-leaders.

The agent hosts monthly leader meetings where volunteers learn about upcoming county, state, and national events; tips on club management; fun and educational delivery methods for 4-H subject matter, and other information relevant to leading an active 4-H club. Also in 2004-05 in Marion County the agent hosted monthly leader meetings where 4-H club leaders and co-leaders learned skills to help them be successful club leaders. The agent utilized Power Point presentations authored by Alachua County agent Bill Heltemes and available on the state 4-H web site in these meetings.

OUTCOMES AND IMPACTS:

OBJECTIVE 1:

From 2006-2009, thanks in part to a marketing campaign by the agent, the number of 4-H clubs increased in Gilchrist County by 54% (from 11 clubs in 2006 to 18 clubs in 2009).

In 2005, no 4-H clubs in Gilchrist County were officially chartered. In 2009, 17 of 18 clubs are now officially chartered (the newest club is in the process of getting chartered).

OBJECTIVE 2:

In 2005 there were approximately 27 4-H Leaders and Co-Leaders in Gilchrist County. As of 2009 there are approximately 43 Leaders and Co-Leaders in Gilchrist County. In 2004-05 Marion County also saw an increase in 4-H volunteers, up to over 100 by 2005.

OBJECTIVE 3:

Since 2006, all new 4-H club leaders and co-leaders in Gilchrist County underwent an application process, personal interview. Reference check, and background check utilizing the Choice Point company.

All current leaders are re-appointed annually but have to turn in an application each year. Every three years leaders undergo another background check.

OBJECTIVE 4:

100% of all 4-H Club Leaders and Co-Leaders in Gilchrist County indicated the Gilchrist County 4-H Leader Handbook and coinciding training at leaders meetings was very beneficial in helping them better understand the purpose of 4-H and improve delivery methods to participating youth.

78% of Gilchrist County 4-H Club Leaders and Co-Leaders (33 of 43) indicate that they utilized knowledge about learning styles when working with the youth in their club.

81% of Gilchrist County 4-H Club Leaders and Co-Leaders (34 of 43) indicate that they utilized information on organizing a 4-H club meeting learned at Leader Training meetings when planning their 4-H club meetings in 2006-07.

In 2004-05, 88% of Marion County Leaders and Co-Leaders attended the series on 4-H Club Organization taught by the agent (38 of 44).

OBJECTIVE 5:

In 2006-07, an average of about 60 % of 4-H Club Leaders and Co-Leaders in Gilchrist County attend monthly leader meetings (22 of 37)

In 2004-05, on average 72% of Marion County 4-H Club Leaders and Co-Leaders attended monthly leader meetings (average of 32 of 44).

OBJECTIVE 6:

In 2007-08 4-H year, enrollment in Gilchrist County approached 300 youth.

In 2006-07 4-H year, enrollment in Gilchrist County 4-H is up by about 15% (220 in 2006-07 compared to about 190 in 2005-06).

In 2004-2005 in Marion County, 4-H enrollment increased by over 10 % in 2004 and in 2005.

Overall, the agent’s efforts in recruiting, training and retaining volunteers has translated into growth of the overall 4-H program and the participating youth are developing life skills thanks to our leaders and volunteers.

PROGRAM TITLE:III. 4-H ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

A. SITUATION:

Gilchrist County is a rural county in North Central Florida that retains a strong agricultural base but has grown in population in recent years thanks to an influx of new residents mostly from south Florida. In the 2000 U.S. census Gilchrist County had a total population of 14, 437 residents. The county had 827 children under five years old; 975 children between ages five and nine; 1,077 youth ages 10-14; and 1,154 youth ages 15-19. That means in 2000 there were about 3,000 4-H aged youth in Gilchrist County. About ten percent of the population is minority. Serving the youth of the county is a network of 13 4-H clubs distributed throughout the county. The county lacks a large meeting facility so finding places to adequately house large clubs is a challenge. Some larger clubs meet at county “voting houses” or at schools. The extension office does not have an adequate facility to hold meetings or classes with over 20 participants. The county has many qualified leaders who have volunteered for many years for 4-H, as well as some new leaders who are eager to serve. Local county government and the local school board are both very supportive of 4-H work and extension in general.

The 4-H agent has to organize local, district, and state events to supplement educational opportunities for youth participants. Also the agent has to find financial support for 4-H events and activities. Since space is so limited in the Extension Office, the agent must find facilities in the county to hold 4-H educational activities and supporting events (such as contests, awards ceremonies, day camps, etc.) The

agent also has to maintain a functional 4-H Advisory Committee composed of local stakeholders in youth development to ensure the 4-H program is meeting the needs of local youth.

Target Audience:

Gilchrist County 4-H Advisory Committee Members, potential members, the Gilchrist County School Board, the Gilchrist County Board of County Commissioners, 4-H Club leaders, co-leaders, and volunteers, and local individuals and businesses who support youth development in the county.

B. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

It is the goal of the 4-H agent to work with local club leaders, local government officials, the school board, the 4-H advisory committee, and other local, state, and even national committees to provide a framework of educational opportunities and activities to interest the youth of Gilchrist County. This entails activities related to project work such as judging team practices, local contests, exhibitions, membership on state committees to plan state events, meetings with faculty from other counties or the University to plan educational activities or events, work related to organizing local and district events, and other related behind-the-scenes work that needs to be done to make the total educational program a success. Specifically:

1. The agent will maintain a functional 4-H advisory committee that will meet at least two times annually to help direct 4-H programming efforts in the county

2. 100% (5 of 5) members of the Gilchrist County Board of County Commissioners will a) know and understand 4-H youth development efforts in the county , b) actively support 4-H efforts through providing financial support for the 4-H program, and c) support the program through participation at various 4-H events in the capacity of judges, sponsors, etc.

3. The School Board of Gilchrist County will provide space to host at least two major events each year (County 4-H Events and the 4-H Awards Banquet), and will sponsor at least one school enrichment program per year

4. At least 5 local businesses will support 4-H programming efforts by either providing financial support, in-kind contributions or volunteering the use of their facilities or employees to help with 4-H educational programs

C. EDUCATIONAL METHODS AND ACTIVITIES:

OBJECTIVE 1: The agent will maintain a functional 4-H advisory committee that will meet at least two times annually to help direct 4-H programming efforts in the county

The advisory committee has met three times annually and is made up of school board employees, teachers, 4-H leaders, local youth, 4-H alumni, and various other adults from the county who have a stake in 4-H youth development

The committee is on a three-year rotation system; members rotate off after a three year term

The advisory committee helps the agent develop the annual plan of work and

helps evaluate the impacts and outcomes of local programming efforts

OBJECTIVE 2: 100% (5 of 5) members of the Gilchrist County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) will a) know and understand 4-H youth development efforts in the county , b) actively support 4-H efforts through providing financial support for the 4-H program, and c) support the program through participation at various 4-H events in the capacity of judges, sponsors.

The agent has met with BOCC members to give an update on the state of 4-H in the county annually since 2006.

The agent maintains a good relationship with the County Extension Director , the County Manager and Board members.

OBJECTIVE 3: The School Board of Gilchrist County will provide space to host at least two major events each year (County 4-H Events and the 4-H Awards Banquet), and will sponsor at least one school enrichment program per year.

The agent meets at least once annually with board members or school administrators.

The agent maintains a good working relationship with local teachers and offers trainings on the embryology program. 11 teachers have attended this training annually since 2006.

OBJECTIVE 4: At least 5 local businesses will support 4-H programming efforts by providing financial support, in-kind contributions or volunteering the use of their facilities or employees to help with 4-H educational programs.

The agent speaks at various civic functions such as Rotary Club meetings and Chamber of Commerce meetings to promote 4-H to local businesses.

The agent educated local businesses and non-profit organizations on how they can partner with 4-H to promote youth life skills development in Gilchrist County.

D. OUTCOMES AND IMPACTS

OBJECTIVE 1:

Since the agent is the first full-time 100% 4-H faculty in Gilchrist County, a functional advisory committee specific to 4-H had never been maintained. The agent during his first year on the job has identified local stake-holders and decision-makers to serve on a functional and active 4-H advisory committee which has met at least twice annually since 2006.

In Marion County from 2004-2005, the agent met regularly with the 4-H Advisory committee, the overall advisory committee, the 4-H Farm Advisory Committee, and the Marion County 4-H Foundation.

OBJECTIVE 2:

Since 2006, the Gilchrist County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) have allowed local 4-H Clubs to display promotional scarecrows on the lawn of the courthouse in honor of National 4-H Week.

The BOCC allows the free use of county parks and county-owned buildings to host 4-H club meetings, classes, day camps and various other functions.

The Gilchrist BOCC has given Gilchrist County 4-H $5,000.00 annually to supplement 4-H educational programs.

Every commissioner has attended at least one major 4-H event in the county annually since 2006, often serving as a judge at County Events or attending 4-H Banquet as a sponsor.

Each year during National 4-H Week, the Gilchrist BOCC has made an official proclamation at BOCC meetings designating the first week in October 4-H Week in Gilchrist County. In 2005 the Marion County BOCC also made a similar proclamation.

OBJECTIVE 3:

Since 2006 the School Board has donated use of the Trenton Elementary School’s cafeteria and class rooms for 4-H County Events Day, District Events in 2006, and annually for the end of the year awards banquet. The school board normally charges about $800.00 for each use. The Marion County School board donated an elementary school to host District Events in 2004.

Annually the school board sponsors the embryology school enrichment program for every third grader in Gilchrist County

The board has allowed the 4-H agent to request excused absences for youth participating in 4-H events throughout the state during normal school hours

OBJECTIVE 4:

In 2004 and again in 2005, Publix supermarkets donated $5,000.00 to the Marion County 4-H Foundation to supplement 4-H Summer Camp.

Five local churches have donated use of their facilities to either hold normal 4-H club meetings, special day camps, officer training workshops, or leader trainings.

Over 20 local businesses support 4-H youth at the Suwannee River Youth Fair by purchasing the project animals from youth. This has allowed some youth to save enough money each year from their livestock project to attend college.

Since 2006, over 20 local business owners and individual citizens serve as judges for various 4-H competitions annually.

As a result of the agent maintaining an open relationship with local government

officials, local school board officials, area businesses and other non-profit organizations, local youth have locations and funds to engage in hands-on learning opportunities which help them develop life skills. These skills will help them make informed decisions like abstaining from drugs, and help prepare them for further education or employment after graduation. The agent reached his goals for this program.