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Agricultural Sciences

4-H & Youth Development Program

 

Volunteers are the foundation of the 4-H youth development program in every county. From the traditional 4-H club to the more non-traditional after school or summer day-camping program, volunteers can work directly with the children or work "behind the scenes" in advisory capacities to make a difference in the lives of local youth.

4-H Youth Development Advisory Committees
Local residents provide leadership and guidance to ensure that programs are viable and address the needs of youth in local communities. Advisory committee members assist in identifying program needs, helping staff in marketing and delivering educational programs, and evaluating program impact. Advisory leaders also provide leadership for fund raising and development to ensure the 4-H youth program is sustained.

4-H Program
From animals to technology, the wide variety of programs offered through 4-H provides many opportunities for volunteers to pursue personal interests while serving as either a club leader, organizational leader, project leader, or activity leader in a local 4-H club. What volunteers do depends on their interests and the time they have to donate toward enriching the lives of the youth with whom they work. Information about Penn State's
4-H program is available on the program website. Contact the 4-H youth development educator in your county extension office to explore ways to help locally.

Nutrition Links
The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and the Pennsylvania Nutrition Education Tracks (Tracks) programs meet with limited income youth at after school programs, at child day care centers (school-aged children), neighborhood centers, summer day camps, church youth groups, and low-income housing homework clubs. Youth learn attitudes and behaviors that create lifelong healthy food choices and have fun cooking, eating, and learning in a series of meetings where they typically gather. Volunteers can help arrange facilities, organize groups, purchase and prepare food for demonstrations, assist with lessons, provide child care, or serve in advisory capacities. Contact the nutrition educator in your county extension office to explore opportunities for volunteering.

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This site was designed and developed by Darlene Jury.
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Last modified Wednesday, July 9, 2008 15:11