Youth Development (Lea County)

County Competitive events and contest trainings were conducted to expand life skills and knowledge. 80% of novice and junior youth advanced to District competition while 100% of seniors advanced to state completion with 25% going on to National Competition. Contest areas taught by the 4-H Home Economist included Home Economics Bowl, Consumer Decision Making, Public Speaking and Favorite Foods. 85% of youth participating in competitive events increased in mastery and belonging related to teamwork, character and critical thinking as evidenced by good team working relationships, good sportsmanship and project activity completion.

From September 2007 to May 2008, Lea County’s 4-H School Enrichment program grew by 42% from 585 in the 2006-2007 school year to 1,389 in the 2007-2008 school year. The 4-H Agent/Home Economist provided quality educational experiences through cooperation with classroom teachers. Youth learned from a variety of topics ranging from citizenship to Ag in the Classroom to 4-H projects like Clover buds, Uniquely New Mexico and Health and Fitness and life skills as shown by the increased development in Mastery. Mastery was evidenced by the critical thinking skills applied to the projects in order to solve math equations or comprehend reading information into answers to questions as well as by developing the understanding that everyday goods don’t come from the grocery store but that there is process as to how those goods are made and obtained.

Sixteen youth participated in Springtime state wide leadership events. 10 youth attended Senior Leadership Retreat in January where they participated in helping a food bank prepare goods to be distributed to local families in need. Six youth attended the first Youth Get Away retreat in April. The novice and junior age youth were able to work together for several workshops which allowed for spirit of cooperation as well as development of team work and communication skills. One youth was awarded “most likely to be a state officer” award for her leadership in group activities.

After winning the CDM contest at the 2007 State 4-H Conference, 3 youth gathered and studied contest materials in preparation for competition at the Western National 4-H Round Up in Denver, CO. Youth worked with adult partners to conduct a fundraiser to raise money for this trip. The youth on the team with help from other 4-H members sold programs and T-shirts at the NFR Steer Tripping Finals. The youth raised over $1,000.00 toward providing coverage for their expenses. Youth gained knowledge in organizing fundraisers, money management as well as team work and time management.

Seven 4-H youth served as presenters, pledge leaders and speakers for the annual Lea County 4-H Awards Banquet, increasing their public speaking skills and providing leadership to the program. Members who completed record books received medals and plaques in recognition of their achievements and increase in life skills throughout the 4-H year. 120 members, leaders and volunteers attended this event.