In 1976 a task force was formed to assess the feasibility of the youth program and concluded that young people needed a continuous and fulfilling educational experience. This educational experience would assist youth in developing positive self-esteem, communication skills, and self confidence. The task force recommended that the program’s name be changed to Youth Development Program.
The Youth Development Program included 4-H projects such as nutrition, clothing construction, small engine repair and gardening. Youth learned parliamentary procedures and other leadership and citizenship skills. The program was designed to introduce youth to 4-H and enroll them in an existing county 4-H club. After a period of time, it was noticed that many of these young people were not moving into existing 4-H clubs and were among the last to transition into traditional 4-H clubs.
A large number of these youth, however, remained as participants in the youth development program. Staff continued to provide these youth with a wide range of educational projects and activities. Many of the youth who mastered the 4-H projects and wanted to enter into county competitive events could not participate because they were not enrolled in a traditional 4-H club and were not considered bona-fide 4-H members.
In 1985 Prairie View Cooperative Extension and Texas Cooperative Extension developed new guidelines, and the name of the youth program was changed to its present name, the 4-H &Youth Development Program. The new guidelines and name change provided the participating youth of the Cooperative Extension Program all rights, privileges and opportunities of 4-H. Many of these participants who are enrolled in the program with the guidance of Prairie View A&M University Cooperative Extension county staff members are now bona-fide 4-H club Members.
The 4-H and Youth Development Program focuses on helping youth develop citizenship, leadership and life skills. An array of projects, educational programs and activities are offered continuously to contribute to the participants’ growth and development.
All county staff members have responsibilities in 4-H. They work with volunteers in organizing community 4-H clubs. They also assist in establishing 4-H projects and special interest groups and conduct work in the independent school districts.
The 4-H & Youth Development Program has five thrust areas on the state level.
Job Force Preparation, Career Development and Entrepreneurial Skills
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Daniels Selected for 2009-10 Class of Food Systems Leadership Institute Fellows