Utilizing 4-H in Afterschool Settings: Two Approaches for Integration

Rachel Rudd,Naomi Brower

doi:10.5195/jyd.2013.110

Abstract

As our communities grow and change, afterschool programs represent an avenue to bring resources to populations which would otherwise not be available to them. Combining 4-H with the afterschool environment can be beneficial in supporting and raising the quality of afterschool programs being offered. This article explores the benefits and challenges of two approaches of implementing 4-H programming in afterschool settings: the 4-H managed program that is created and run solely by 4-H faculty and staff and the 4-H afterschool partnerships which are facilitated in partnership with existing afterschool programs. Regardless of the approach, combining 4-H with afterschool programs can strengthen well established programs and can enhance the quality of all afterschool programs.

Highlights

Two Approaches for IntegrationIn Utah, there are two main ways that 4-H has been utilized in afterschool settings. The two approaches include a total 4-H managed program and a 4-H partnership
The hours between school and when parents get home from work have been proven to be a critical time for youth and families (Afterschool Alliance, n.d.; Miller, 2003)
While it is true that afterschool programs provide a safe haven for youth if their parents are unavailable (Afterschool Alliance, n.d.; Newman, Fox, Flynn, & Christeson, 2000), we see an increasing need for supplemental education as the United States falls behind in different areas of education (Miller, 2003)

Summary

Two Approaches for Integration

In Utah, there are two main ways that 4-H has been utilized in afterschool settings. The two approaches include a total 4-H managed program and a 4-H partnership. This connection directly to 4-H provides high quality programming and activities utilizing curriculum that has been peer reviewed and offered by a land grant university While this approach to 4-H afterschool management has many benefits, the total 4-H managed program requires much time and effort from 4-H county faculty to ensure the program will have the funding, training, and resources necessary to ensure a successful program. Funding is often competitive and can be challenging to obtain Because this approach is essentially starting a new afterschool program from scratch, there are many community partners and resources that need to be secured in order to ensure program success. Much of the limitation of this approach lies within the delicate balance of the partnership between the 4-H county office and the afterschool sites, and especially the willingness of the faculty and staff on both sides to implement the 4-H program in a way that will be most beneficial for the youth

Successful Implementation

Findings

Conclusion