Ricochet

Image
Ricochet an extreme 4-h leadership adventure.

What is Ricochet?

Ricochet: An Extreme Leadership Adventure is a middle school leadership initiative created and sponsored by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and Iowa 4-H. To Ricochet means to move round with a lot of energy, and be unpredictable - sort of like middle school youth. They bounce from one thing to the next trying on different roles as they find their place in the world.

Something else you can't predict: when opportunities for youth leadership will arise, but you can help prepare youth to become leaders. Help them be ready to accept the leadership opportunities that come their way.

Ricochet uses adventure and experience to bring about learning. Kids will learn by doing things themselves. You can help them build their leadership skills, as they get involved in a REAL project that their community needs.

Why is Ricochet important?

With preparation, youth can identify leadership opportunities and accept the challenges. When you Ricochet you're on the move, full of energy and unpredictable, but ready for whatever comes your way. That's the sign of a true leader.

Youth will learn skills and make an impact as they make choices and share their voice! They will have fun with friends as they discover the power of YOUTH. Ricochet will enable youth to make a difference NOW that can help change their lives and communities!

How to Get Involved with Ricochet

Ricochet Facilitator Trainings

Facilitator training is highly recommended to deliver the program with fidelity and the most effective learning experience for the youth to fulfill the expected outcomes. Trainings are offered periodically around the state of Iowa. Trainings may also be arranged at a school or organization if they have multiple staff who will help deliver the program.

  • Booster Trainings: Any staff who is currently implementing Ricochet (1, 2, or 3) or is partnering with someone who is implementing should come to the booster session. All Booster Trainings will be $80.00.
    • No trainings available at this time. 
       
  • New Trainings: Any staff or community partner who has never been trained in Ricochet prior OR would like a full refresher of Ricochet 1, 2, and 3 should come to a new training. All New Trainings include two lunches and snacks. Registration of $125.00 (includes hard copy of curriculum). $75 if you have newest curriculum to bring with you. Curriculum is available from ISU Extension and Outreach Store
    • March 20-21 at the Boone County Extension Office (1327 SE Marshall St, Boone, IA 50036)

Attend a training if you are interested in:

  • Helping youth become leaders
  • Encouraging youth to share their voice
  • Creating a sense of belonging for youth
  • Actively helping youth to make a difference NOW in their lives and communities

To implement Ricochet into your classroom, library, YMCA, summer program, etc., contact your county Iowa State University Extension and Outreach office. They will be able to assist you with possible partnerships, funding options, trainings, FAQs, etc. 


Evaluation

We recommend utilizing the Leadership and Civic Engagement blocks for this program when utilizing the Common Measures evaluation tool. Iowa 4-H state or county program staff may request a paper and/or digital common measures survey for the delivery of this program by filling out this online request form.