Thirteen volunteers participated in training on Saturday, March 1st, at Henry Co. Extension Office to become club leaders with the Iowa 4-H Program. There were volunteers from Des Moines, Henry, Louisa, and Washington Counties.
The training was a six hour program that focused on positive youth development. Participants learned characteristics of the 4-H eight essential elements of a caring adult, safe environment, inclusive setting, and providing opportunities for mastery, service, self-determination, planning for the future and engaged learning. The training was split to focus on 4th-12th grade 4-H clubs and K-3rd grade Clover Kids groups. Leaders of 4-H clubs also learned about planning club meetings, helping youth set goals and best practices through a panel with current volunteers. Clover Kids leaders also learned about planning age-appropriate lessons, curricula available and behavioral management.
The training was led by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Youth Program Specialists, Kati Peiffer and Tricia Stouder.
For more information on volunteer opportunities with the Iowa 4-H program, please contact your local Iowa State University Extension & Outreach Office.