Youth Development (Hidalgo County)

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.

Photography Contest guidelines and requirements have been updated and reflect more timely and diverse skills. In 2007, 88 photos were received from 31 youth representing eight counties. A Promotional 4-H Calendar is created annually using the top 12 photos from the photography contest, increasing recognition of youth participating in the photography contest. Calendars include 4-H and other organizations dates. Printing costs are sponsored by El Paso Electric Company. Over 300 calendars are distributed annually with proceeds going to support 4-H programming.

Youth and adult Record Book trainings were conducted across the state, increasing knowledge and skills in record keeping and written communication. Ten youth submitted State Records in 2007.