ISU Extension 4-H Volunteers are the backbone of our community’s youth-serving organization. Effective volunteers provide the experiences and positive relationships that enable 4-H youth to gain the skills and competencies they need to be successful now and in the future. Iowa State University Extension & 4-H volunteers from Clarke County explored the characteristics of a vibrant 4-H club experience as a part of a statewide training process that’s linking research with best practices for youth programs.
Seven 4-H Volunteer Leaders from four clubs explored research-based strategies that characterize vibrant 4-H clubs on September 11, 2008. This statewide initiative is part of the ongoing ISU Extension 4-H Youth Development training for certified volunteers. 4-H organizational and project volunteers completing the training include: Jodie Jackson – Green Bay Gophers 4-H Club; Joyce Shaw – K.W. Hustlers; Doug Haeberlin – Osceola Go-Getters; Melanie Eddy – K.W. Hustlers; Steve and Dara Queck – Osceola Go-Getters; and Darin Downing – Sheep project leader.
The local 4-H volunteers are a part of a statewide training initiative preparing over 1,500 volunteers who work with young people in non-formal educational settings to effectively promote positive youth development through the 4-H Club experience.
To find out more about ISU Extension’s Clarke County 4-H program contact Glen Easter, County Extension Education Director (gweaster@iastate.edu) or Kate Johnson, County Youth Coordinator (johnska@iastate.edu) at the Clarke County Extension Office (641-342-3316).
kpatti/bmr
1/23/2009