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 (Colfax County)

Impact Reports | Plan Details

This county-level plan is managed by Boe Lopez. Print this page to create a Plan of Work signature page.

Plan Goal

Use experimental education and hands-on programs among 4-H youth to increase understanding, knowledge, and interest in continued agriculturally based career choices.

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. The New Mexico 4-H Youth Development Program strives to ensure that every youth involved will have the opportunity to participate in 4-H experiences that strengthen a young person's sense of belonging, generosity, independence, and mastery.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2000 Census, the total population of COlfax County is 14, 189. Youth between the ages of 5-19 number 3,204 or 23% of the county population. The 2005-2006 Colfax County ES 237 report reflects a youth enrollment of 118 in organized 4-H community clubs with 45 adult volunteer leaders to help facilitate club programs and events. The report also shows that overall 2,118 youth participated in Colfax County youth programs within traditional, school enrichment, and special interest 4-H settings.

Through projects and activities in 4-H and general youth development, youth have many opportunities to develop life and leadership skills that include responsibility, self-confidence, self-esteem, communication skills, teamwork and decision making. These skills are introduced, developed and expanded throughout a lifetime.

Target Audience and Actions

Youth ages 5 to 19 in Colfax County are targeted to learn life, leadership and citizenship skills through: Project Work, Special Interest Groups, School Enrichment, Competitive Events, Fairs, Clinics, Workshops, Reocrd Books, Camps Community Service, Public Speaking, Elected/Appointed Offices, and other educational opportunities.

Short-Term Objectives

At least 20% of 4-H youth in COlfax County will participate in county, state, or national events/programs, that will help them learn valuable lifeskills such as communication, decision-making, self-esteem, ect.

At least 50% of Colfax County 4-H youth enrolled in livestock projects will enhance their skills in these projects by participating in workshops, clinics,and other hands-on experiences.

At least 25% of Colfax County 4-H youth will increase their citizenship skills by participating in at least one community service project through their club or their county.

Medium-Term Objectives

In 2-3 years the number of Colfax County 4-H youth enrolled in livestock projects will increase by 2 percent.

In 2-3 years at least 60% of Colfax County 4-H youth enrolled in livestock projects will enhance their skills in these projects by participating in workshops, clinics, and other hands-on experiences.

In 2-3 years at least 40% of Colfax County 4-H youth will increase their citizenship skills by participating in at least one community service project through their club or their county.

Long-Term Objectives

In 5 years the number of Colfax County 4-H youth enrolled in livestock projects will increase by 5 percent.

In 5 years at least 75% of Colfax County 4-H youth enrolled in livestock projects will enhance their skills in these projects by participating in workshops, clinics, and other hands-on experiences.

In 5 years at least 50% of Colfax County 4-H youth will increase their citizenship skills by participating in at least one community service project through their club or their county.

Evaluation Plan

Evaluation tools will be developed and administered in at least 10% of 4-H youth livestock programs/events to measure knowledge, skills, and attitude gained.

Data will be collected on number of youth enrolled in 4-H livestock programs in Colfax County each reporting year.

ES 237 report will be used as an evaluation tool to measure progress in addition to providing a basis for future planning.