Note: This site is for reviewing legacy plan of work data from 2007-2011. If you are looking for the current plan of work interface, visit pow.nmsu.edu.

Youth Development (Doña Ana County)

Plan Goal

Youth will be educated in hands-on learning experiences that promote life skills and expand there knowledge to develop positive lifelong productive citizens.

Situation Statement

Youth development research emphasizes the importance of meeting the four basic human needs of belonging, generosity, independence and mastery. Studies indicate that youth whose needs are met in positive ways are likely to develop into active citizens and contributing members of their families and communities. Dona Ana County youth are no different. The Dona Ana County 4-H is a thriving youth organization that is successful in all types of leadership, skill development, and competitive activities. The Dona Ana County 4-H Office provides current, research-based educational tools and related learning experiences for youth. Educational activities facilitate the development of life skills, citizenship and leadership, fostering a sense of belonging and independence, providing opportunities for mastery, and creating a spirit of generosity. Skills are introduced, developed and expanded throughout a lifetime.

Target Audience and Actions

Youth ages 5 to 19 are targeted in this plan to learn life, leadership and citizenship skills through project work, school enrichment, competitive events, fairs, clinics, workshops, camps, and community service.

Short-Term Objectives

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.

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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. During the 4-H program year, a minimum of 20% of youth in the 4-H club program will experience an increase in the success level of their chosen project over last year.

Medium-Term Objectives

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.

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.

15% increase in participation in competitive projects and events.

Long-Term Objectives

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.

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.

Evaluation Plan

Number of participants and results will reflect success.