Youth Development (Hidalgo County)

Relations between the State 4-H Office and the Department of Family & Consumer Sciences and Extension Home Economics are positive. Members of the Academic and Extension Home Economics Faculty served as superintendents for State 4-H Conference. ICAN matching funding is maintained through cooperation between the Department of Extension Home Economics and the State 4-H Office.

At the 2007 New Mexico State 4-H Conference, youth gained knowledge and skills related to various subject matter through participation in competitive events. Participation in Home Economics contests has increased by 25% over the last five years, due to the incorporation of new contest opportunities and promotion and training related to existing contests.

The Home Economics Specialist provided youth trainings to 14 counties in 2007. Youth gained knowledge and skills related to conflict resolution, leadership styles, child development and decision making.

In 2007, 8 teams participated in Consumer Decision Making at Western 4-H Round-Up. A presentations contest has been added to Roundup along with a home economics related tour. Home Ec Bowl was added as a competitive event at Western 4-H Roundup in 2007. As a result of training and promotion, new states are implementing Home Economics Contests and participating at 4-H Roundup. New states include Tennessee, California, Kentucky and Oregon. Participation in Home Economics related projects has increased by 50% from 2004 to 2007.

Updated information on exhibit requirements has been provided to the New Mexico State Fair and Extension Staff working with 4-H. New exhibit requirements are readily available through the 4-H website. Promotional items are developed for the recruitment of Youth Officials and also posted online. Results: Youth Official participation increased to 9 in 2007. Overall entries held steady at 1900. The Best of Show Pie and Cake were auctioned with proceeds going to the individual 4-H member.