Great Opportunities for Achieving Leadership

Situation: As we look into the future of growing 4-H, through the 4-H GROWS HERE campaign, Osceola County is working on developing innovative 4-H experiences to reach the goal of increasing and diversifying membership to include multicultural youth. According to the 2015 U.S. Census, Osceola County has a population estimate of 323,993, 24.9% are youth under 18 years old, 51% of those are Hispanic, 40% White Non-Hispanic, 13 % African American, 0.8 % Native American and 3% are Asian youth. Objective: Increase 4-H teen participation amid multi-cultural youth through sports-based youth development programs which help provide leadership opportunities in the community that promote healthy living habits among youth. Methods: The Teen Health Advocates participated in workshops, seminars, and activities that promoted healthy living. A 4-H soccer camp series included activities that increased their knowledge on the principles of nutrition and exercise as they relate to health, through what they know and love most, Fútbol Soccer. The 4-H G.O.A.L. soccer camp has been held for two consecutive years during the summer. Results: The impact of this project in Osceola County was to reach diverse families, to engage them in 4-H Youth Development programs and for youth to adopt behaviors in healthy lifestyles. As a result, 62.5% (n=16) joined 4-H for the 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 program years. By participating in these programs, 80% of the participants gained the skills to lead group discussions, 98% can work as a team member, 75% can teach others. Conclusion: In order to grow 4-H, the need to provide innovative programs that appeal to diverse audiences. Cultural and sports-based positive youth development programs facilitate learning and life skills development for a new generation of 4-H’ers

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Posted: April 20, 2017


Category: 4-H & Youth, UF/IFAS Extension
Tags: 2017 Symposium, FL., Kissimmee, L. Valencia, Osceola County, UF/IFAS Extension


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