Local 4-H volunteer leaders complete statewide vibrant 4-H clubs training

Allamakee County 4-H volunteers explored the characteristics of a vibrant 4-H club experience as a part of a statewide training process that is linking research with best practices for youth programs.

Twenty-three 4-H volunteer leaders representing 211 4-H members explored research-based strategies that characterize vibrant 4-H clubs January 22. This statewide initiative is part of the ongoing ISU Extension 4-H Youth Development training for certified volunteers. Local 4-H organizational and project volunteers completing the training include: Duane and Becki Estebo, Lansing; Bev Heim, New Albin; Deb Hammel, Dorchester; Nancy Turner, Myrna Jones, Amy Lage, Postville; LaRae Schutte, Luana; Kim Yohe, Nita Grangaard, Waterville; Barb Melcher, Harpers Ferry; Marlene Ahouse, Joyce Kucera, Laura Mellick, Amy Opperman, Robin Johnson, Teresa Myers, Mary Meyer, Teri Welsh, Tammy Troendle, Dan Sivesind, and Tina Cooper, Waukon.

The local 4-H volunteers are part of a statewide training initiative preparing over 1,500 volunteers who work with young people in nonformal educational settings to promote positive youth development through the 4-H Club experience. Volunteers will utilize research supporting components of vibrant 4-H groups in designing educational experiences like pre-meeting activities that promote members' sense of belonging and helping club officers and families plan by using a variety of best practices.

The training is based on research that explores the impact of vibrant youth groups of which 10 essential characteristics are in place. According to the vibrancy research by Kirk Astroth:

• Vibrant 4-H clubs may change how they do things, but not what they do, providing a "fun" learning environment with powerful educational impact (FUN).

• Vibrant 4-H club members work hard and play hard while building friendships (FRIENDS).

• Vibrant 4-H clubs empower young people by allowing their voice to be heard (VOICE).

• Vibrant 4-H clubs value and practice service to others giving youth a 'choice' in the direction of their learning and activities (CHOICE).

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.

To find out more about the ISU Extension Allamakee County 4-H program contact Kris Fahey, County Youth Coordinator, at (563)568-6345 or kfahey@iatate.edu.