Clover Chasers Pilot Project
Earlier this year all the counties in Iowa submitted an action plan which outlined their goals of increasing the number of 4-H membership by 3% annually.
One of our county’s goals is to encourage more hands-on learning in the community clubs and increase parental involvement. In order to measure the effectiveness of this idea, we have indentified the Clover Chasers as a pilot club. During a 9 month period, the members of the Clover Chasers and their families will host club meetings, lead activities, interactive demonstrations, and recreation.
The members of the Clover Chasers and their parents met on October 1, 2007 to learn more about this project. At that time, the parents were asked to fill out a participation survey. As a result of this survey, it was determined that parents and youth together will be demonstrating such hobbies as glass cutting, first aid, cake decorating and carpentry during their upcoming club meetings.
It is proven that hands-on activities are the best way to teach youth a skill. It is also believed that when parents are actively involved in their child’s interest, the child is more apt to stay involved. This is true for 4-H, sports, the arts, academics and other activities.
I’m challenging all parents to attend club and project meetings and for leaders to incorporate more hands-on activities during their club meetings. We all have a vested interest in 4-H—our kids!
1/18/2008