4-H leaders learn about the impact of youth engagement

Over 50 4-H volunteers from Washington County participated in their annual state training, ?Youth Engagement Strengthens 4-H? on March 15. This training defined youth engagement, identified strategies to support positive youth adult partnerships and gathered resources to aid in engaging youth in core principles of positive youth development. In addition, volunteers practiced ways to empower youth of all ages to make 4-H more engaging.

This annual 4-H training has a unique focus each year from Iowa State 4-H Youth program. This professional development requirement shows the state?s commitment and investment toward both volunteer development and youth.

?I look forward to our leader trainings because our volunteers gathered are so passionate about 4-H and impacting young people in positive ways,? said Amy Green, Washington County 4-H/Youth Coordinator. ?In addition to the training materials, our leaders learn a lot from each other when sharing, comparing and brainstorming together. We have a great group of volunteers!?

4-H volunteers, as caring adults, are an important element of ISU Extension and Outreach?s youth-serving organization. Effective volunteers provide the experiences and positive relationships that enable 4-H youth to become productive citizens, outstanding communicators, effective leaders, and successful learners now and in the future.

To find out more about Washington County 4-H program as a volunteer or member, contact the Extension office at 319-653-4811. Follow ?Washington County 4-H ? Iowa? on Facebook for up-to-date information on 4-H events and youth programs.