Youth Development (Hidalgo County)

Objective #15: 98% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in 4-H programming will learn subject matter concepts through hands-on experiences such as camps, clinics, workshops, etc.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #1.

Objective #16: 98% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in 4-H programming will develop life skills through project work, competitive events, real-life situations and career exploration opportunities.
• Competitive Events
o County – 33 Counties conduct competitive events and/or contest trainings to expand life skills and knowledge. Senior Age Youth (with 4 or more years 4-H experience) advance to State level competition. Contest Areas include:
Consumer Decision
Crops
Dairy
Fashion Magic
Fashion Revue
Favorite Foods
Home Ec Skill-a-thon
Horse Shows
Horse Judging
Horticulture
Land
Livestock Judging
Meats
Parliamentary Procedure
Presentations
Public Speaking
Quiz Bowls
Rodeos
Shooting Sports
Talent Contest
Wildlife Habitat
Wool Judging

o State – State 4-H Conference is conducted in July on campus at New Mexico State University for Senior age 4-H members qualifying at the County Level. Staff from the College of Ag & Home Economics serve as superintendents to conduct quality educational experiences for youth related to several subjects. Youth also participate in hands-on workshops and tours.
o National – Senior age 4-H members winning selected contests at the State Level are eligible to participate in National and Regional Contests.
339 senior age youth representing 30 counties participated in subject matter related contests (Ag & Natural Resources, Home Economics, and General) and hands-on workshops, increasing knowledge and life skills through education.

Objective #17: 50% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in 4-H will gain public speaking skills, strengthening communication and organization abilities and self-concept, through speaking at club, school enrichment and special interest events.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #3.

Objective #18: 75% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in 4-H club, school enrichment, special interest and county 4-H events will develop cognitive skills, teamwork, leadership and citizenship potential.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #4.
• In 2010, 339 youth with 4 years or more 4-H experience contributed to a statewide community service project during State 4-H Conference, donating funds to the Sunrise Lions Club to assist with the Lions Camp for the Deaf. New Mexico 4-H collected $3,000 to provide improvements to facilities and send children to camp.

Objective #19: 65% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in the 4-H club program will gain leadership and teamwork skills through leadership opportunities at the club, county and state levels and demonstrate effective leadership and teamwork skills to local community members, organizations and projects, and provide primary leadership to statewide events.
Accomplishments:
• See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #5.
• State Leadership – Senior age 4-H youth with 4 or more years experience
o Youth serve in leadership roles at the state level by performing the following duties:
o Elected Officer
o Appointed Diplomat/Ambassador
o Event Coordinator
o Youth received training in the following areas:
o Parliamentary Procedure
o Public Speaking
o Recreation
o Conflict Resolution
o Leadership Skills
o Goal Setting
o Recruitment & Diversity
o Event Planning

Objective #20: 50% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in the 4-H club program will have established partnerships with local administrators and community leaders, effectively managing programs and facilitating change through youth/adult partnerships.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #6.

Objective #21: 85% of Agents and staff with at least 4 years of experience will increase professional and personal skills related to life skills and youth development by receiving quality training through theory, contest training, subject matter training, policy training and evaluation training.
Accomplishments:
See accomplishments for all agent experience levels under Objective #7.

Overall Accomplishment for youth with at least 4 years experience:
4,659 youth ages 14-19 gained life skills through participation in the New Mexico 4-H
Program.
 

Overall Accomplishment for the NM 4-H Youth Development Program 2009-2010:
o 22,729 youth gained knowledge and skills related to Agriculture, including animal science and horticulture.
o 55,969 youth gained knowledge and skills related to Healthy Lifestyle Choices including fitness, nutrition, safety and substance abuse prevention.
o 15,520 youth gained knowledge and skills related to Science and Technology including biology, computers and electronics.
o 5,800 youth are contributing members of society through their service learning and citizenship projects. Members average three hours of service per year for a total of over 17,400 hours of community service.
o 68,929 youth are engaged in education programs provided by the New Mexico Cooperative Extension Service 4-H Youth Development Program.

Objective #8: 98% of youth with 2-3 years of experience in 4-H programming will learn subject matter concepts through hands-on experiences such as camps, clinics, workshops, etc.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #1.
Objective #9: 98% of youth with 2-3 years of experience in 4-H programming will develop life skills through project work, competitive events, real-life situations and career exploration opportunities.
Accomplishments:
• Competitive Events
o County – 33 Counties conduct competitive events and/or contest trainings to expand life skills and knowledge. Junior Youth (with 2-3 Years 4-H experience) advance to District Level Competition. Contest Areas include:

 
Consumer Decision
Crops
Dairy
Fashion Magic
Fashion Revue
Favorite Foods
Home Ec Skill-a-thon
Horse Shows
Horse Judging
Horticulture
Land
Livestock Judging
Meats
Parliamentary Procedure
Presentations
Public Speaking
Quiz Bowls
Rodeos
Shooting Sports
Talent Contest
Wildlife Habitat
Wool Judging


o District – 4 Extension 4-H Districts conduct District level competitive events annually. District competition is for Novice or Junior youth who qualify at the County level. Contests are hosted by Counties on a rotation and supported by State 4-H Staff. 2010 events were: Southeast District Contest in De Baca County – 500 youth; Combined Northern District Contest in Bernalillo County – 185 youth; and Southwest District Contest in Hidalgo County – 180 youth.

288 Junior age youth, with 2-3 years experience in 4-H participated in District level competition increasing knowledge and life skills through education.

Objective #10: 50% of youth with 2-3 years of experience in 4-H will gain public speaking skills, strengthening communication and organization abilities and self-concept, through speaking at club, school enrichment and special interest events.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #3.

Objective #11: 75% of youth with 2-3 years of experience in 4-H club, school enrichment, special interest and county 4-H events will develop cognitive skills, teamwork, leadership and citizenship potential.
Accomplishments:
See accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #4.
• In 2010, youth with 2-3 years or more 4-H experience contributed to a statewide community service project during Youth Get Away writing letters of support to children with deployed military parents in partnership with the Operation Military Kids Program.

Objective #12: 65% of youth with 2-3 years of experience in the 4-H club program will gain leadership and teamwork skills through leadership opportunities at the club, county and state levels and demonstrate effective leadership and teamwork skills to local community members, organizations and projects, and provide primary leadership to statewide events.
Accomplishments:
See accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #5.
• County Council Leadership – Generally youth with at least 3 years 4-H experience
o Youth serve in leadership roles at the county level by performing the following duties:
 

o Elected Officer
o Appointed Leadership
o Event Coordinator
o Committee Chair/Member

o Youth received training in the following areas:
o Parliamentary Procedure
o Public Speaking
o Recreation
o Conflict Resolution
o Leadership Skills
o Goal Setting
o District/Multi-County Leadership Trainings

Objective #13: 50% of youth with 2-3 years of experience in the 4-H club program will establish partnerships with local administrators and community leaders, effectively managing programs and facilitating change through youth/adult partnerships.
Accomplishments:
See accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #6.

Objective #14: 85% of Agents and staff with 2-3 years of experience will increase professional and personal skills related to life skills and youth development by receiving quality training through theory, contest training, subject matter training, policy training and evaluation training.
Accomplishments:
See accomplishments for all agent experience levels under Objective #7.

Overall Accomplishment for youth with 2-3 years experience:
7,852 youth ages 12-13 gained life skills through participation in the New Mexico 4-H Program.

Short Term Objectives
Objective #1: During the 4-H program year, 98% of youth involved in 4-H programming will learn subject matter concepts through hands-on experiences such as camps, clinics, workshops, etc.

Accomplishments:
• Extension Personnel organize and implement County and Multi-County Camps for 4-H Youth around the State. Camp sites include the Datil Well; County Fairgrounds; White Sands Missile Range and Ghost Ranch. Youth gained life skills related to: citizenship; social skills; healthy life style choices; teamwork; communication; leadership; and recreation. Senior 4-H members served as counselors. 11,693 youth participated in overnight and day camps, increasing knowledge and skills related to subject matter, leadership, and basic life skills.

• Extension personnel provide quality educational experiences through hands-on workshops and trainings. Many included construction of actual projects or exhibit items to take home. 2009-10 Training topics included:

1. Alternative Energies
2. Animal Care
3. Bee Keeping
4. Career Education
5. Character Education
6. Citizenship
7. Clowning
8. Cloverbuds
9. Conservation
10. Electricity
11. Emergency Preparedness
12. Entomology
13. Fibercrafts
14. Food Preservation
15. Foods & Nutrition
16. Home Economics
17. Horse Science
18. Horticulture
19. Leadership
20. Leathercraft
21. Livestock
22. Parliamentary Procedure
23. Public Speaking
24. Record Keeping
25. Recreation
26. Safety
27. Scrapbooking
28. Sewing, Clothing & Textiles
29. Shooting Sports
30. Skiing
31. Wildlife Management


Over 3500 youth participated in educational workshops conducted in 25 counties. Youth increased life skills related to home economics, agriculture & natural resources and general 4-H projects, while gaining knowledge and skills in their chosen subject matter.

Objective #2: During the 4-H program year, 98% of youth involved in 4-H programming will develop life skills through project work, competitive events, real-life situations and career exploration opportunities.
Accomplishments:
• Competitive Events
o County – 33 Counties conduct competitive events and/or contest trainings to expand life skills and knowledge. Novice Youth advance to District level competition. Contest Areas include:

Consumer Decision
Crops
Dairy
Fashion Magic
Fashion Revue
Favorite Foods
Home Ec Skill-a-thon
Horse Shows
Horse Judging
Horticulture
Land
Livestock Judging
Meats
Parliamentary Procedure
Presentations
Public Speaking
Quiz Bowls
Rodeos
Shooting Sports
Talent Contest
Wildlife Habitat
Wool Judging

o District – 4 Extension 4-H Districts conduct District level competitive events annually. District competition is for Novice or Junior youth who qualify at the County level. Contests are hosted by Counties on a rotation and supported by State 4-H Staff. 2010 events were: Southeast District Contest in De Baca County – 500 youth; Combined Northern District Contest in Bernalillo County – 185 youth; and Southwest District Contest in Hidalgo County – 180 youth.

577 Novice age youth, with 1-2 years experience in 4-H participated in District level competition increasing knowledge and life skills through education.

• Fairs and Achievement Days
o Achievement Days – Counties with Fairs falling after the State Fair may hold Achievement Days to qualify exhibits for state level competition. 5 counties hold Achievement Days annually to showcase life skills gained by 4-Hers throughout the year.
o County Fairs – 33 counties participate in County or Bi-County Fairs with an indoor exhibit component and livestock shows. Indoor exhibits, livestock shows, horse shows and dog shows allow youth to showcase life skills gained throughout the year. Youth receive recognition through ribbons, plaques, premium awards and belt buckles.
o Regional Fairs – Counties may participate in three different Regional Fairs: Southern New Mexico State Fair; Eastern New Mexico State Fair; and the Navajo Nation Fair. Indoor exhibits, livestock shows, horse shows and dog shows allow youth to showcase life skills gained throughout the year. Youth receive recognition through ribbons, plaques, and special awards.
o State Fair – 30 counties exhibited items at the 2010 New Mexico State Fair. Extension Agents and Specialists work to provide a quality showcase of members’ completed exhibits. Indoor exhibits, livestock shows, horse shows and dog shows allow youth to showcase life skills gained throughout the year. Youth receive recognition through ribbons, premium money, trophies and livestock auction slots.

Over 5000 items were exhibited at County Fairs and Achievement Days throughout New Mexico in 2010. Over 2100 items submitted by over 780 youth from around the state were exhibited at the 2010 New Mexico State Fair. 525 youth received premium checks ranging from $2 to $192. Youth received recognition and feedback for continued improvement of knowledge and skills related to over 200 project areas. Over $1,000,000 was paid to New Mexico Youth through premiums, junior livestock auctions and fair related scholarships.

Project Work Quotes:
o “Working as a 4-H member really means a lot to me. I try to work hard in all that I do. Sometimes it’s hard pushing myself to go the extra distance, but when I finally get through it, it is such an awarding feeling.” Socorro County 4-H’er.
o “My first year in 4-H taught me that it takes hard work and responsibility to complete a project. I have also learned valuable skills that I will always have.” Lincoln County 4-H’er.
o “The 4-H Program has helped me learn about horses, swine, citizenship, wildlife, baking and public speaking so far.” Roosevelt County 4-H’er.
o “Everything I have done in 4-H goes to my other activities. Being in 4-H has made me take a lot of responsibility for my animals, projects and actions. This has helped me since I started middle school this year.” Dona Ana County 4-H’er.

Objective #3: During the 4-H program year, 50% of youth enrolled in 4-H will gain public speaking skills, strengthening communication and organization abilities and self-concept, through speaking at club, school enrichment and special interest events.

Accomplishments:
• Awards and Recognition Events
o County Faculty and Staff work with County Councils and Leaders’ Associations to provide recognition events to the over 5,800 youth involved in the New Mexico 4-H Club Program. More than 20 counties conduct recognition events annually with members serving as keynote speakers, emcees, pledge leaders and presenters. Members receive certificates, metals, plaques, belt buckles, jackets, and other appropriate awards. 4-H members from around New Mexico were recognized for their achievements and increase in life skills throughout the 2009-2010 program year. Members in leadership roles increased public speaking skills.
• Speaking Opportunities
o Local Club Meetings & Programs – 75% of all youth involved in the 4-H program increase public speaking and communication skills through demonstrations and leadership roles in their local club.
o Afterschool Programs – 50% of all youth involved in 4-H Afterschool programs increase public speaking and communication skills trough active involvement in leadership and speaking curricula
o Radio Programs & Other Media – 25% of all youth involved in the 4-H program increase public speaking and communication skills through providing ads for local radio and other media outlets related to County Fairs, National 4-H Week and other 4-H promotions
o County 4-H Council Meetings & Programs – 10% all youth involved in the 4-H program increase public speaking and communication skills through leadership roles at the County level.
• In 2010, 5,895 youth participated in age appropriate activities gaining knowledge and skills related to personal development and leadership.
Personal Development and Leadership Quotes:
o “My position on the council is Reporter. I’ve really learned a lot from this position. I’ve learned responsibility to my community and my club to keep them informed as much as I can on results of various events that happen on a monthly basis.” Socorro County 4-H’er.
o “I like being in 4-H because it has taught me responsibility and leadership and I have made many friends.” Lincoln County 4-H’er.
o “My 4-H experience has helped me to work better with others by putting me in groups and making me cooperate more and be more patient.” Dona Ana County 4-H’er.

Objective #4: During the 4-H program year, 75% of youth in club, school enrichment, special interest and county 4-H events will develop cognitive skills, teamwork, leadership and citizenship potential.

Accomplishments:
• Local clubs conduct community service projects and participate in projects at the county level. Examples of County Community Service Projects include: Assistance at Civic Events, Christmas Cookies and other gifts for elderly members of the community, Visits and donations to Assisted Living Facilities, Meals on Wheels, Toys for Tots, Highway Clean-up, Relay for Life, Beautification projects, Holiday food baskets, Food Drives, and many other creative community contributions. Over 4,910 youth from 33 counties increased knowledge and skills by participating in community service projects at the local, county, and state level.
o “4-H has taught me a lot and made me a better person. Our club does a lot of community service projects and that makes me feel good to know that I am helping other people in my community.” Hidalgo County 4-H’er.
• In 2010, youth with 1-2 years or more 4-H experience contributed to a statewide community service project during Youth Get Away writing letters of support to children with deployed military parents in partnership with the Operation Military Kids Program.
• Youth at all levels were given the opportunity to apply for Community Service Scholarships thanks to an anonymous donor. Youth must plan and conduct a service project, personally giving primary leadership to the project. Scholarship funds may be used to attend a statewide 4-H event, run for a leadership team position or for an International Exchange. 75 scholarships were awarded in the amount of $12,300.
o “One of my favorite camps was Livestock School. Thanks to the New Mexico Community Service Scholarship, I was awarded the registration fee to go to Livestock School.” Socorro County 4-H’er
• School Enrichment Programs - One of the three primary delivery modes in the 4-H Youth Development Program is school enrichment. Youth, ages 5- 19, can belong to a 4-H school enrichment group. Extension personnel provide quality educational experiences through cooperation with classroom teachers. 2009-2010 Training Topics included:

 
Ag Awareness
Animal Science
ATV Safety
Career Opportunities
Character Education
Chemical Safety
Cultural Education
Drug Awareness
Egg to Chick
Entomology
Farm Animals
Farm Safety Day
Food Safety
Gardening
Germ Detective
Health
Just Be It Healthy & Fit
Kids, Kows & More
Life Skills Training
Nutrition & Fitness
Sewing
Welcome to 4-H
Water Conservation


Over 31,991 youth ages 5-19 participated in school enrichment programs gaining knowledge and skills related to subject matter, cognitive skills and teamwork.

• Special Interest Programs - One of the three primary delivery modes in the 4-H Youth Development Program is the special interest group. Youth, ages 5- 19, can belong to a 4-H special interest group. The group focuses on a project (subject matter topic) for a minimum of six hours outside of school hours. Extension personnel and volunteers provide quality educational experiences through after school programs, day camps and other appropriate programs. 2009-2010 Training Topics included:

Animal Science
Character Education
Cloverbuds
Communication
Conflict Resolution
Conservation
Decision Making
Gardening
Goal Setting
GPS/GIS
Home Economics
Job Skills
Nutrition & Fitness
Plant & Soil Sciences
Recycling
Robotics
Stress Management
Teamwork
Welcome to 4-H
Water Conservation


Over 19,861 youth ages 5-19 participated in special interest programs gaining knowledge and skills related to subject matter, cognitive skills and teamwork skills.

• Special Needs – Programming is being developed to provide specialized programming for youth with special needs by adapting projects for the appropriate skill level. Three counties are currently providing programs pairing diverse special needs youth with caring adults to help them reach their potential as capable, competent, caring and contributing citizens.

• 4-H Military Clubs - Special clubs have established to serve military youth throughout the state. The goals of these clubs are to provide quality 4-H leader education, sustain/increase project and leadership opportunities at the club level, to promote county, district and state level 4-H opportunities to members and to continue community service projects. 2009-2010 membership included 50 4-H members at White Sands Missile Range, 96 4-H members at Holloman Air Force Base, and 50 4-H members at Cannon Air Force Base, for a total of 196 military club members.

• OMK Programming: Operation Military Kids is the U.S. Army's collaborative effort with America's communities to support children and youth impacted by deployment. Regardless of whether Families are experiencing deployment for the first time, the second time or another in a series of multiple deployments, OMK’s goal is to connect military children and youth with local resources in order to achieve a sense of community support and enhance their well-being.
o Speak Out for Military Kids (SOMK): The SOMK “speak out” program is a youth-led, adult supported activity that seeks to give voice to, and educate others about what it is like to be a military kid.
o Mobile Technology Lab (MTL): The MTL contains video/digital cameras, laptops, scanners, printers, etc., and can be signed out by organizations for use with projects, trainings and other events. It is also a way for military kids to send pictures and DVD’s to family members who are deployed. 4-Hers help make photo transfer pillowcase projects and Hug Dolls using these systems. 4-Hers sew pillowcases and donate them to OMK to support this portion of the project.
o Youth Focused Programs: Youth focused programs encompass a variety of different types of OMK events for military kids and their families across New Mexico. These programs provide opportunities for military families to get together, have fun, and offer support to one another in an informal environment.
4-H members assist at these programs across the state, providing support and connecting military youth back to their communities.

o 4-H members have been instrumental in raising money for OMK. Over $1000 dollars has been raised to assist military youth through 4-H service projects: Pillowcase money donations, Forum for Adults Silent Auction, and joint 4-H leadership team fundraisers.
o Hero Packs: Hero Packs are backpacks filled with different items to thank children for the sacrifices their families have made and to help them keep in touch with their deployed love ones. 4-Hers collect items to fill the Hero Packs with. They also assist with writing letters for the packs (over 500 letters written by 4-Hers last year alone) 4-Hers even help distribute the backpacks. 4-Hers have distributed over 500 packs to military youth across our state.

New Mexico 4-H members have been present at five deployment events this year, reaching approximately 500 OMK youth. Indirectly, 4-H members have impacted an infinite number of youth through their donations, time and efforts.
 
Objective #5: During the 4-H program year, 65% of youth in the 4-H club program will gain
leadership and teamwork skills through leadership opportunities at the club, county and state levels and demonstrate effective leadership and teamwork skills to local community members, organizations and projects, and provide primary leadership to statewide events.

Accomplishments:
• Club Leadership – all age groups
o Youth serve in leadership roles at the local level by performing the following duties:
o Elected Officer
o Committee Chair/Member
o Pledge Leader
o Recruiter
o Youth received training in the following areas:
o Parliamentary Procedure
o Public Speaking
o Recreation
o Conflict Resolution
o Leadership Skills
o Goal Setting
Over 5,895 youth were involved in leadership opportunities at the club, county and state levels demonstrating effective leadership and teamwork skills.

Objective #6: During the 4-H program year, 50% of youth in the 4-H club program will begin establishing partnerships with local administrators and community leaders, effectively managing programs and facilitating change through youth/adult partnerships.

Accomplishments:
• Advisory Committees
o Youth serve on Extension Advisory Committees to assist agents in setting annual program calendars, choosing subject matter topics for workshops and clinics and planning events
o Youth work with adult partners to solicit donations and sponsorships for 4-H programming, scholarships and county fair needs as well conducting fundraisers. Counties conducted a variety of fundraisers to send youth on trips; provide for countywide trainings and socials; and maintain funds for general operations. Fundraisers included: raffles, gift wrapping, turkey shoots, candle sales, auctions, catering, bake sales, car washes, and many others. Counties raised over $19,000 toward providing quality programs. Youth gained knowledge and skills in organizing fundraisers and managing money as well as constructive youth/adult partnerships.

Overall Accomplishment for youth with 1-2 years experience:
• 54,016 youth ages 5-11 gained life skills through participation in the New Mexico 4-H Program.

Objective #7: During the 4-H program year, 85% of Agents and staff will increase professional and personal skills related to life skills and youth development by receiving quality training through theory, contest training, subject matter training, policy training and evaluation training.

Accomplishments:
• New Agent Orientations:
*Includes travel to county offices and review of 4-H Policies, Programming Efforts, Civil Rights, and other pertinent information related to 4-H
o Bernalillo County New Agent Orientation (2010): Cassidy Byerly; John Garlisch
o Cibola County New Agent Orientation (2010): Chase Elkins
o Grant County New Agent Orientation (2010): Amy Star
o Sierra County New Agent Orientation (2010): William “Dee” Wear
• Centra Sessions:
*Online training sessions provided to agents, program assistants and support staff
o NM 4-H Curriculum Update (2009)
o Scholarship & Professional Development Opportunities (2009)
o 4-H Event Chaperone Orientation (2009)
o New Parent Orientation (2010)
o Operation Military Kids (2010)
o Risk & Liability Management (2010)
o State Conference Program Discussion (2010)
o 4-H Reporting (2010)
o Volunteer Leader Screening (2010)
o Statewide Event Participation (2010)
• New Mexico Cooperative Extension Service All Extension Conference
*Workshop designed and implemented by the State 4-H Staff
o Complaint Free World (2010)
o Professional Ethics (2010)
• New Mexico 4-H Conversation:
*Includes workshops provided and/or recruited by State 4-H Staff and program discussion led by trained facilitators
o Facilitator Training (2010)
o Personality IQ (2010)
o Vibrant 4-H Groups (2010)
o Marketing Discussion (2010)
o Professionalism Discussion (2010)
o Collegiality Discussion (2010)
o Adult Volunteer Leadership Development Discussion (2010)
o Youth Development Discussion (2010)
65 agents gained knowledge and skills related to administration of the 4-H program and professional development.
 
• AXED Course Assistance:
o Hodnett, Frank (2010). 4-H Portion. College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, AXED 100.
• Resource Development:
o Hodnett, Frank, Richardson, Rick, Schultz, Linda, Turner, Mindy & Zemler, Amy (R-2010). New Mexico 4-H New Agent Orientation Handbook. New Mexico State 4-H. (Training notebook for new employees including sections on civil rights, policies & procedures, 4-H programming and more).
o Turner, Mindy (2010). Introduction to 4-H. College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, AXED 488 (10 lesson online course to be offered in 2011).
• Civil Rights Reviews
*Includes travel to County Office, review of files and training for appropriate staff on maintaining 4-H Civil Rights files
• Hidalgo County Civil Rights Review (2010)
• Quay County Civil Rights Review (2010)
• Roosevelt County Civil Rights Review (2010)
• San Miguel County Civil Rights Review (2010)
• Torrance County Civil Rights Review (2010)

Agents received quality training in a variety of subjects, and provided positive feedback regarding overall trainings. Accessibility and timeliness of training has increased through Centra Trainings and New Agent Orientations. Achievement Levels serve to recognize professionals that excel at professional improvement and have been a positive incentive for agents related to attending professional development trainings and serving as resources in teaching.
o In 2010, 11 agents were awarded the Green Level, 14 agents achieved the Bronze Level, 3 gained the Silver Level and 1 was recognized at the Gold Level.

Youth work with adult partners to conduct fundraisers. The County Council and Clubs conducted a variety of fundraisers to send youth on trips; provide awards at the end of the year; provide for countywide trainings and socials; and maintain funds for general operations. Fundraisers included: concession booth at county fair, District Contest T-shirts, District Contest cookout and swimming, 50/50 Raffle at Rodeo Hidalgo, Raffle Drawing at Hidalgo County Fair, Concession Stand at SWNM Youth finals rodeo, 4-H Dance, and Cake Auction. The county council and clubs rose over $4300 toward providing quality programs. Youth gained knowledge and skills in organizing fundraisers and managing money as well as constructive youth/adult partnerships.

10 youth with livestock and 25 youth with indoor exhibits exhibited at the Southern NM State Fair in Las Cruces, NM. Over $3500 was paid to Hidalgo County youth through the Jr. Livestock Auction. 90% of Hidalgo County youth who participated increase their knowledge and skills in project areas as evidenced by photographs, garments made, products exhibited, animals shown and ribbons awarded.

12 youth and 12 adults participated in a showmanship clinic for lambs and goats. A local lamb breeder assisted the agent with this clinic. Youth received hands on training related to showmanship techniques and appropriate attire as well as show ring etiquette. Many participants and parents commented to the agent how much they appreciated the clinic. Youth who participated in this clinic went on to do very well in showmanship contests at County and SNMSF.

13 youth participants, 3 senior youth leaders, and 2 adult volunteer leaders attended Hidalgo County 4-H Day Camp held in Lordsburg, NM. Promoted the following 4-H projects with local youth: welcome to NM 4-H, entomology, outdoor adventures, clowning, horticulture, and home interior design. Other activities included map reading and directions, and the Ideas for Cooking And Nutrition (ICAN) nutrition education program. These activities were designed to increase life skills related to responsible citizenship, teamwork, self esteem, healthy lifestyle choices, and social skills. Senior 4-H members served as youth leaders completing leadership training and experience. 100% of youth reported an increase in knowledge and skills related to 4-H Project Curriculum, leadership, and basic life skills as evidenced by the crafts and projects completed while at the day camp. One camper stated: “I really want to be in 4-H this next year!”

Hidalgo County Contest was conducted to expand life skills and knowledge. There were 44 youth participants. Contest Areas included Public Speaking, horticulture, consumer, fashion revue, sewing, favorite foods, wildlife, entomology, shooting sports. 95% of youth participating in competitive events increased mastery and independence related to teamwork, character and critical thinking as evidenced by team camaraderie, positive sportsmanship and completion of project related activities.

15 4-H members and their parents attended a 4-H Shooting Sports Safety Policies and Guidelines Training. Youth received hands on training related to shooting safety and gun handling. This training was required before the youth could participate in 4-H shooting sports practices.

All students in grades 7-12 in Hidalgo County participated in the Hidalgo County Teen Fair. There were 414 students through the Maze, and had a total attendance of 634 (including parents, community members, volunteers and guests). The event focused on the consequences of good and bad choices featuring a life size maze that the youth traveled through. The tile of the maze was: UFC “Understanding Future Challenges; Fight for Your Life” 100% of evaluations showed and increase in knowledge in overall teen health issues such as: pregnancy, STD's, Alcohol & Drug Use, nutrition, education, good decision making. When asked “What did you learn today that may affect the choices you make in the future?” One student stated “Think rationally about all my choices and consider possible consequences, negative or positive”.
This effort was collaboration with several agencies including: Hidalgo County Health Consortium, Hidalgo Medical Services, Project HEROES: Total Community Approach
Hidalgo County DWI Program, Bootheel Youth Association, Lordsburg Kokopelli Program, The Wellness Coalition, Tobacco Use Prevention and Control Program, Border Area Mental Health Prevention Program, Border Area Mental Health Family Stabilization Services, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Department, Lordsburg Police Department, New Mexico State Police, United States Border Patrol – Lordsburg Station, New Mexico Department of Transportation, Lordsburg Hidalgo Chamber of Commerce, Lordsburg Municipal Schools, Healthy Start, New Mexico Department of Health, Hidalgo County Local Emergency Planning Committee.

39 livestock and 23 indoor youth exhibitors participated in the Hidalgo County Fair showcasing their development of life skills through indoor and livestock exhibits related to over 200 project areas. Over 100 items were exhibited. Youth received recognition and feedback for continued improvement of knowledge and skills. Over $91,000 was paid to County 4-H Members through premiums, junior livestock auctions, add-ons and fair related scholarships. 80% of youth enrolled in Hidalgo County 4-H improved their skills in home economics, creative arts, livestock and personal development as evidenced by quality baking products, garments made, products exhibited, animals shown and ribbons awarded.

9 4-H youth served as keynote speakers, emcees, pledge leaders and presenters at the annual County 4-H Banquet, increasing their public speaking skills and giving leadership to the overall program. Members received plaques and medals in recognition of their achievements and increase in life skills related to mastery, belonging, generosity and independence throughout the 2008-2009 program year. 76 members, leaders and guests attended the event.

Youth serve in leadership roles at the county level by performing the following duties: Elected Officer, Appointed Leadership, Event Coordinator and/or Committee Chair/Member in 4-H year 2009-10. Youth received training in the following areas through County and Multi-County trainings: Parliamentary Procedure, Public Speaking, Team Work, Communication, Recreation and Goal Setting. 75% of youth actively involved in the County Council gained mastery of skills related to leadership as evidenced in an increased willingness to serve as leaders in their local clubs and their community. One youth reported, "I had the experience to be a NM 4-H Ambassador from my leadership experience gained through my club and County Council leadership”.

100% of local clubs conduct community service projects and 50% of 4-H youth participate in service projects at the county level in 2009-10. Examples of Community Service Projects include but are not limited to: Hygiene kits for natural disaster victims, Clover Campaign Donations at local businesses for Sunrise Lions Camp, Highway Cleanups, county building weed pulling, Cemetery clean-up, Caroling at Sunshine Haven Nursing Home at Christmas, Food Drives and County Fairgrounds Clean-up. Youth increased knowledge and skills relate to generosity and service learning, contributions to group efforts and responsible citizenship as evidenced by willingness to serve, appreciation of service opportunities and youth assuming leadership roles related to service. Results were reported by club leaders and in member record books.

20 4-H members attended a series of Record book Trainings. Youth received hands on training related to record book content matter such as tips on writing your 4-H story, filling out the NM Report form, filling out record sheets, and compiling all the information into one document. 85% of youth reported an increase in knowledge related to understanding profits and losses, how to set goals, and methods of organizing documentation throughout the year. 90% of youth reported an increase in mastery skills such as creative writing skills, accountability skills, planning and organizing, self-motivation and goal setting skills. There was a 9.1% increase in the number of record books submitted in 2009.

5 4-H youth leaders participated in the Hidalgo County 4-H Council Officers Retreat. Youth received hands on training on teamwork skills, leadership skills and parliamentary procedure. The new officers were given the opportunity to bond as a team so that they may lead the County 4-H Council more effectively through the 2009-10 4-H year.100% of the youth reported verbally an increase in knowledge of their fellow officers and agent and felt more comfortable working with their peers. 100% of participants reported an increase in skills related to meeting procedures and parliamentary procedures.

138 youth participated in a hand washing program put on in conjunction with the Hidalgo County Health Consortium. The program focused on good hand washing habits and being sanitary. Youth were shown via a hands on method how easy it is to leave harmful germs on your hands when you don’t wash properly. 90% of participants saw the need to wash their hands properly.

40 4-H youth officers and 9 4-H agents from the Southwest 4-H District participated and conducted the Southwest District Leadership Retreat held in Deming, NM in 2010. Hidalgo County had 5 participants this year. This is a program put on each year by the agents in the Southwest 4-H District. Participants gained knowledge and skills related to Parliamentary Procedure, Public Speaking, Team Work, Communication, Recreation, Leadership and Goal Setting. Participants also gained knowledge on Methamphetamine awareness. Each 4-H agent presented a workshop on a different topic and all of the youth participants increased their knowledge evidenced by their questions related to the topics and leadership they took back to their home counties.

87 third and fourth grade youth participated in a tree planting workshop put on in cooperation with the Hidalgo Soil and Water Conservation District and Natural Resources Conservation Service in honor of Earth Day. The district provided seedling trees for each youth to take home and plant. The agent, members of the SWCD board and the district conservationist taught participants the importance of trees in natural resource conservation and prevention of soil erosion. Each participant received detailed instructions provided by the agent on planting their tree at home. 90% of participants learned skills related to natural resource conservation and horticulture and gained life skills related to nurturing relationships, responsibility, caring for others and wise use of resources.

147 pre K through 2nd Grade youth attended RVT Elementary Career Day. The agent did roping demonstrations and had a booth about ranchers and ranching. Youth were intrigued about horses and how ranchers use horses for their work. The agent answered many questions about where our food comes from and how it gets from the ranch to our plate. 95% of youth participants gained knowledge on livestock agriculture and food origin. 100% of youth participants benefitted emotionally by the animal-human connection made by being able to pet a horse, evidenced by their excitement and happiness.

3 youth participated in the Hidalgo County Fed and Bred Incentive program promoted by the Hidalgo County Cattle Growers Association and the agent. Youth received over $4000 in premiums raised by the association dedicated to those youth who bought and fed a steer from Hidalgo County. Participants gained life skills and knowledge related to goal setting, marketable skills, planning/organizing and keeping records. This program should grow each year. There are 3 additional youth that are planning are participating in this program next year.

78 youth participated in a 5 week series conducted by the agent titled “Things we can Learn from a Cow and a Worm”. Materials were provided by the National Cattleman’s Beef Association in an effort to provide a program that takes a different angle on sustainability, which was requested by the teachers. The program focused on how these animals recycle nutrients naturally and how cows and worms are animal models of sustainability. Also focused on how the participants can reduce, reuse and recycle at home. Participants gained knowledge and life skills related to self responsibility, self motivation, being a responsible citizen, concern for others and communication, evidenced by the worksheets they did in each class and the questions that were asked during each session. Youth were also introduced to the 4-H program and what it has to offer.

4 youth and 2 parents from Hidalgo County attended Livestock School in Albuquerque, NM. 100% of the youth gained knowledge in lamb showmanship as evidenced by all receiving a ribbon in their respective experience groups. 2 of these youth applied for and received general scholarships to attend livestock school in exchange they have planned and conducted community service projects to account for the scholarship amount they received.

49 individual home visits were made by the agent to 4-H youth in Hidalgo County who had Livestock projects in 2010. The agent purchased scales and was able to weigh animals of those who did not have access to livestock scales. Through these visits the youth learned how to properly feed their animals and showmanship skills. They learned how to calculate average daily gain and how to meet a target weight at show time. These are life skills related to keeping records, goal setting, learning to learn, self responsibility and marketable skills. There is evidence of learning by having a healthy animal who was at proper weight and showing their project livestock at county fair.

Long Term Objectives:
Objective #15: 98% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in 4-H programming will learn subject matter concepts through hands-on experiences such as camps, clinics, workshops, etc.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #1.

Objective #16: 98% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in 4-H programming will develop life skills through project work, competitive events, real-life situations and career exploration opportunities.
• Competitive Events
o County – 33 Counties conduct competitive events and/or contest trainings to expand life skills and knowledge. Senior Age Youth (with 4 or more years 4-H experience) advance to State level competition. Contest Areas include:

Consumer Decision
Crops
Dairy
Fashion Magic
Fashion Revue
Favorite Foods
Home Ec Skill-a-thon
Horse Shows
Horse Judging
Horticulture
Land
Livestock Judging
Meats
Parliamentary Procedure
Presentations
Public Speaking
Quiz Bowls
Rodeos
Shooting Sports
Talent Contest
Wildlife Habitat
Wool Judging
o State – State 4-H Conference is conducted in July on campus at New Mexico State University for Senior age 4-H members qualifying at the County Level. Staff from the College of Ag & Home Economics serve as superintendents to conduct quality educational experiences for youth related to several subjects. Youth also participate in hands-on workshops and tours.
o National – Senior age 4-H members winning selected contests at the State Level are eligible to participate in National and Regional Contests.
270 senior age youth representing 30 counties participated in subject matter related contests (Ag & Natural Resources, Home Economics, and General) and hands-on workshops, increasing knowledge and life skills through education.

Objective #17: 50% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in 4-H will gain public speaking skills, strengthening communication and organization abilities and self-concept, through speaking at club, school enrichment and special interest events.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #3.

Objective #18: 75% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in 4-H club, school enrichment, special interest and county 4-H events will develop cognitive skills, teamwork, leadership and citizenship potential.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #4.
• In 2009, 270 youth with 4 years or more 4-H experience contributed to a statewide community service project during State 4-H Conference, donating funds to the UNM Cancer Center. Youth of all ages collected funds for the UNM Cancer Center throughout the year. New Mexico 4-H collected $10,503.21 to assist with housing for families and additional cancer research.

Objective #19: 65% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in the 4-H club program will gain leadership and teamwork skills through leadership opportunities at the club, county and state levels and demonstrate effective leadership and teamwork skills to local community members, organizations and projects, and provide primary leadership to statewide events.
Accomplishments:
• See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #5.
• State Leadership – Senior age 4-H youth with 4 or more years experience
o Youth serve in leadership roles at the state level by performing the following duties:
o Elected Officer
o Appointed Diplomat/Ambassador
o Event Coordinator
o Youth received training in the following areas:
o Parliamentary Procedure
o Public Speaking
o Recreation
o Conflict Resolution
o Leadership Skills
o Goal Setting
o Recruitment & Diversity
o Event Planning

Objective #20: 50% of youth with at least 4 years of experience in the 4-H club program will have established partnerships with local administrators and community leaders, effectively managing programs and facilitating change through youth/adult partnerships.
Accomplishments:
See Accomplishments for all 4-H age levels under Objective #6.

Objective #21: 85% of Agents and staff with at least 4 years of experience will increase professional and personal skills related to life skills and youth development by receiving quality training through theory, contest training, subject matter training, policy training and evaluation training.
Accomplishments:
See accomplishments for all agent experience levels under Objective #7.

Overall Accomplishment for youth with at least 4 years experience:
9,123 youth ages 14-19 gained life skills through participation in the New Mexico 4-H Program.