Purdue News
Purdue News
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December 8, 2000 Report: 4-H reaches significantly more Hoosier youthWEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – The number of youths reached through 4-H increased by more than 40,000 in the past year, according to the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service's 2000 Annual 4-H Youth Report. In 1999 there were 250,408 Hoosier youths who participated in 4-H, this year there were almost 300,000 participants statewide – an increase of approximately 16 percent. Cities and towns account for the majority of new 4-H members. In medium-size cities with more than 50,000 residents, membership shot up 34 percent – from 38,173 to 51,034. Membership in small towns and rural non-farm areas increased from 102,203 to 111,539 – almost a 10,000 member boost. Much of the program's growth is attributed to 4-H's increasing role in schools, according to Janet Gordon, state 4-H program leader. Extension offers materials and hands-on training to teachers through 4-H. The 4-H programs are used to supplement traditional book learning with interactive approaches to topics like space, electricity and natural resources. Gordon says county-based Extension educators are developing closer working relationships with schools and other community organizations. "We all win when youth not only learn skills but build assets, set achievable goals and are recognized for what they do well," says Gordon. Many youth are finding that 4-H has much to offer in the club program as well, including projects in computers, arts, companion animals, environmental sciences and many others. In after-school programming, 4-H also offers a wide range of activities including windowsill gardening, leadership activities and aerospace. 4-H is an age-appropriate, university-based program that focuses on developing life skills in leadership, citizenship, communication and decision making. The program's goal is to help build self-confidence while members learn specialized skills and explore possible career interests. 4-H programs are open to anyone from kindergarten to 12th grade. For more information, contact your local Extension office or call 1-888-EXT-INFO Source: Janet Gordon, (765) 494-8422 and janet.gordon@four-h.purdue.edu
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