4-H Update

 Dates to Remember:

* November 7-10:  Extension Forum, CSU Campus
* November 11-13: Colorado Leadership Camp (CLC), Glenwood Springs
* November 24-25: University holidays, offices closed
* November 25-29: National 4-H Congress, Atlanta, GA
* December 1:  Catch-a-Calf applications due to Erin VanPeer, Adams County Extension 4-H Agent

4-H Scholars program

Each year the 4-H Foundation selects one CSU Freshman student who was an active 4-H member to serve as a Scholar for the next 4 years.  The students serve as ambassadors for the State 4-H program by speaking at events, visiting donors and helping out at State 4-H Activities.  Colorado Farm Bureau provides each student a $750 stipend each semester for their work.

Applications for this program are due in the Colorado 4-H Foundation office by November 1, 2011.  If you have 4-H members or past members attending CSU, please share this information with them.  More Scholars program information and  the application requirements can be found at the following website http://www.colorado4hfoundation.org

Thank you for spreading the word. – Gary Small, Executive Director, Colorado 4-H Foundation

Officer Training

The Colorado State University Collegiate 4-H Club would like to offer you their services to counties across the state again this year. The collegiate club presents workshops on many different aspects of 4-H including officer trainings, ice breaker workshops, youth-adult partnerships, leadership training and much more. We are looking for groups to work with during our fall and spring semesters. In order to make the workshops feasible for our club we will be charging a mileage fee of $0.50 per mile with a minimum fee of $100. If you are interested, or would like more information about what the club does as well as the materials we present, please email the club at colostate4h@yahoo.com. We look forward to working with you! – Ellen Butler

Collegiate 4-H Shadow Program

The Collegiate 4-H Shadow Program, November 10-12, 2011, is for high school sophomores to seniors who are interested in seeing what college life is like in a safe setting.  Participants will attend class with a Collegiate 4-H member, get a tour of the CSU campus and the CSU Veterinary Hospital, and see all that CSU has to offer.  Participants will arrive Thursday, Nov. 10, in the evening, participate in icebreakers and get-to-know-you games, spend the night with one of the Collegiate 4-H members, and attend classes, tours and information sessions on Friday. On Saturday participants will have the choice of attending a CSU football game or just heading home.  The only cost for participants will be meals and any extra spending money as all other activities will be free.  If interested please call the State 4-H office at 970.491.1152 or email ellen.butler@colostate.edu. You may also e-mail  colostate4h@yahoo.com or call Anna Ball, CSU Collegiate president, at 970.903.7499.

Thanks! – Anna Ball, CSU Collegiate 4-H President

WRLF Update

WRLF is right around the corner – January 12-15 in Cheyenne, WY.  Early bird registration is available for $225 until November 1.  Registratoin will close on December 15, 2011.  For further information and the WRLF website please click on  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2012-WRLF-Newsletter-8.pdf – Ellen Butler

National After School Science Directory

Looking for a way to promote your 4-H Science Programs? The National After School Science Directory is a searchable database designed to increase access to high-quality science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education beyond the classroom for youth and families across the nation. The Directory houses thousands of STEM opportunities, submitted by science centers, museums, schools and other youth-serving organizations. The National After School Science Directory was developed in partnership with Time Warner Cable as part of its philanthropic initiative Connect a Million Minds. http://www.afterschoolscience.org/join/signup.php?type=directory

IFYE Application Deadline Extended to November 1, 2011

The deadline for IFYE applications has been extended to November 1, 2011.  Please promote this in your county and let me know if you have anyone interested. Thanks so much. – Courtney Loflin, State Coordinator – 4-H International Programs

2012 Colorado 4-H Shooting Sports Program, Hunting/Outdoor Skills Qualifier Event

ATTENTION: Those with 4-H Shooting Sports Responsibilities …

Please pass the email (below) from Doug Laes (Mesa County 4-H Shooting Sports Leader) along to all your 4-H Shooting Sports members, leaders and families who may be interested.

Let me point out that this event IS the State qualifier for the Colorado 4-H Shooting Sports Hunting/Outdoor Skills discipline. Senior 4-H Shooting Sports members attending this event will be in the running to be invited to represent Colorado 4-H Shooting Sports in the Hunting/Outdoor Skills contests at the 2012 4-H National Invitational Shoot in Grand Island, Nebraska in June of 2012.

Jim Hamilton, State 4-H Shooting Sports Coordinator has indicated that in order to be considered for invitation to represent our state at Grand Island, senior members attending this qualifier event need to be enrolled in a 4-H Shooting Sports Project discipline but not necessarily in the 4-H Hunting/Outdoor Skills discipline. Additionally, to be considered for invitation, Senior members need to be at least 14 years old and not older than 18 years old when attending the National Invitational in June of 2012.

I would like to stress again that this event in Fruita, Colorado, IS the qualifying event to fill slots for the Colorado 4-H Hunting/Outdoor Skills team representing us at the 2012 4-H National Invitational.

If you have any questions regarding this event or the qualification process please contact Jim Hamilton at jim.hamilton@colostate.edu (719.846.7403) or Doug Laes at dougl3@msn.com (970.210.7100).

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-YHEC-Shooter-Information-Packet.doc

*** The entry fee to attend YHEC on Oct 8 & 9 has been reduced to $20 per person and we will accept entries up to the start of the event. Remember this event is focused on youth however if adults want to compete there will be a group for them. We will be having our last planning meeting at 7 pm on Oct 4 in the Jockey building if you would like to help.

Please pass this information to anyone who might be interested in helping or competing. – Doug Laes

2012 4-H Youth In Action Award

We are pleased to announce National 4-H Council is now accepting applications for the annual Youth in Action award, to be presented at the 4-H Legacy Awards Gala in New York City on April 17, 2012!  This award recognizes an outstanding young person from your 4-H program who is realizing 4-H’s vision for youth driving positive change in their communities.

The 4-H Youth in Action award is open to 4-H youth and alumni ages 14-19, and applicants should have lead a project, service or event that:

•    Identified a problem in their community,
•    included 4-H as part of the solution, and
•    made an impact in resolving the issue.

If you know of an outstanding 4-H member that fits this criteria, we are accepting your nominations online at the 4-H.org Legacy Awards Gala Website.  Once you have nominated a 4-H youth, please encourage them to apply for this distinguished award.  Both the nominations and applications can be submitted here: http://www.4-h.org/get-involved/sponsor/4-h-legacy-awards-gala/youth-in-action-awards/

Application Requirements
In a 3 minute or less video, the nominee should address the following questions/statements:
(Note: File size should not exceed 50MB or 3 minutes.)
•     What problem did you or your community face?
•     What was the solution to the problem, and how was 4-H involved?
•     What impact did the resolution have on your community?
•     How has 4-H impacted your life?
•     Name any adversities or challenges that your 4-H experience has helped you overcome?

Application deadline is Nov. 1.  Please visit the 4-H Legacy Awards Gala Website for complete award information and application rules.

Questions? We’re happy to help!  Please email Kyle Jones at kjones@4-H.org.

 

CYFAR SCP 2012 RFA Announcement

NIFA is pleased to announce the availability of funding for the new FY 2012 Children, Youth, and Families at Risk (CYFAR) Sustainable Community Projects; the RFA is now available.

Proposals are due on or before December 1, 2011 at 11:59 pm.

The Request for Application (RFA) is available on Grants.gov. You can access each of the pages and see the RFA using the dedicated links below:

NIFA Funding Opportunity Page:
http://www.nifa.usda.gov/fo/childrenyouthfamiliessustainablecommunityprojects.cfm. This page includes links to the request for applications (RFA), the NIFA Grants.gov Application Guide, the application package, and abstracts of funded projects.

Grants.gov Synopsis Page:
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=3JDGTYcRgrGcY991YJ0mvmrMf1nTl1c7tySSQtYLmBHsyK5lJk47!1368593367?oppId=128373&mode=VIEW. This page includes a synopsis of the funding opportunity, a link to the full announcement (RFA) and the application package.

Grants.gov Application Package:
http://apply07.grants.gov/apply/UpdateOffer?id=83470.  This page links to the application instructions and the application package.

Please share this announcement with your networks.

Information about the CYFAR Program can be found here:  http://www.nifa.usda.gov/nea/family/cyfar/cyfar.html

Bonita Williams, Ph.D.
National Program Leader, Vulnerable Populations
Division of Youth and 4-H

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)
Office: 202.720.3566
Fax: 202.720.9366
www.nifa.usda.gov
bwilliams@nifa.usda.gov

4-H Update

 Volume 15, Number 7

Dates to Remember:
* Colorado State Fair – August 26 – Sept. 4
* Colorado 4-H Leaders’ Forum, Glenwood Springs, Sept. 2-3
* National 4-H Week, Oct. 2-8Tri River Area 4-H Program Associates Vacancy Announcement

COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
Extension Program Associates – (4-H Youth Development)
Job #15-11 Full-Time in Mesa County, Grand Junction, CO

Job #16-11 Full-Time in Delta County, Delta, CO

Job #17-11 Half-Time (50%) in Montrose County, Montrose, CO

The purpose of these positions is to provide leadership, guidance and management to the 4-H Youth Development Program in the Tri River Area with a primary responsibility in the applicable county and to work under the supervision of the Area Extension Director.

Application materials, including transcript(s) showing degree(s) conferred, must be RECEIVED no later than Noon Mountain Time 10/26/2011 for full consideration.  Completed Bachelor’s degree required. Complete job description, application process & list of requirements located at: http://www.ext.colostate.edu/coop/jobsmenu.html. CSU conducts background checks on all final candidates.  CSU is an EO/EA/AA Employer.
LM Engineering Post is accepting Student Applications!

If you know of any High School students interested in aerospace, engineering, or robotics they may want to participate in Lockheed Martin’s Engineering Exploring Post.   The Exploring Post is a co-ed program open to students age 14-21 in the Denver Metro Area.    Students and mentors  meet every other Wednesday  September 2011 through May 2012 from 6-8 p.m.  at Lockheed Martin’s Deer Creek Facility.

The program is designed to give students a “behind the scenes” look at aerospace, engineering and technology.  Students will learn about engineering challenges and successes of Lockheed Martin built hardware including  Genesis, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, and Orion from Lockheed Martin program experts.   Activities include: design competitions, project builds, and tours.  At the end of the seven-month program, students complete an aerospace-related final design project with the help of LM mentors and volunteers.

Additional information on the Lockheed Martin Engineer Exploring Post program including registration information can be found on this link:

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/EngineeringExplorersPostFactSheet.pdf

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 6

Dates to Remember:

* Colorado State Fair – August 26 – Sept. 5
* Colorado 4-H Leaders’ Forum, Glenwood Springs, Sept.30 – Oct. 1

Camp Tobin

I want to let all of you know that CAMP TOBIN registration is open and ready for 4-H members and families to sign up.  Click here to register:  https://www.colorado4h.org/events_opportunities/camptobin/reg/index.asp

Please let your families know about this great opportunity to come and stay at State Fair for a very economical price of $5 a night.  We will also have the cafeteria open on the weekends with great home cooked meals –the ones that your mother or grandmother cooked. Pleaes help us spread the work about CAMP TOBIN and what a great place it is to stay for a great price! In these times of economic stress, CAMP TOBIN is a way for the whole family to come and experience the fair and not put a financial burden on the family budget.�
-  Connie Cecil 

4-H Shooting Sports Update

The summer is well and truly upon us! Fairs either are going strong or soon will be and we are all looking forward to another excellent State 4-H Shooting Sports Contest!

You have recently received instructions on how to enter your State Shoot contestants. I hope the process is working well with all of you. I would like to remind you that the entry deadline for the State Shoot Contest is MONDAY AUGUST 1, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. After that time you will NOT be able to make entries or changes to entries.

If you need to make additions or changes to your county’s contest entries after the registration deadline, you will need to contact Jeramy McNeely, Overall State Shoot Superintendent. Jeramy has indicated to me that he would want all changes in written format and emailed to him for documentation. He will then pass on your changes for processing. His email address is jeramy.mcneely@colostate.edu . His office phone number is 719. 767.5716.

I would like to remind you that any changes or additions made after the deadline is subject to late fees. I would HIGHLY suggest that if you know NOW that you are going to be late getting in your county entries that you contact Jeramy NOW to make arrangements and to save yourself late fees!

As always, if you have questions on the registration process, please let me know and I will try to work with you on it! (perry.brewer@colostate.edu, 719.349.1358 – cell. Please remember that if you go to Darrin Goodman or Joy Bauder with questions on the registration system, they are on duty during the work week and may not feel inclined to be available during the weekends!

Thank you for your time! Have a great summer!
- Perry Brewer

China Radio International

Hey Everyone -

A major press hit this week on China Radio International heard by millions in China as well as distributed internationally. The link to listen to the interview of Richard Tucker where you can also send other people is below.  

http://english.cri.cn/7146/2011/07/12/2702s647914.htm
(best viewed in IE)

4-H Day at the Rockies

Colorado 4-H Day at the Rockies! Come out for an evening at the ballpark and help support Colorado 4-H.  It’s the Colorado Rockies vs. Washington Nationals on Saturday, August 6, 2011- 6:10pm. Prices are $27 for lower level – normally $38.  $5 of each ticket purchased will benefit 4-H!
To purchase tickets visit: https://oss.ticketmaster.com/html/go.htmI?l=EN&t=corockies&o=1219443&g=493
SPECIAL PROMO CODE: 4HDAY

But hurry!  This promo ends on August 1!

2011 Fall Leaders Forum

While summer is a busy time for everyone, I wanted to send this brief promo about the Fall Forum to include in your next newsletter.

It’s time to start thinking about the annual Fall Forum! This annual event is for 4-H Leaders and parents to receive training in a wide variety of topics. Learn about new projects and see old friends and take advantage of a great training opportunity. Each year it travels to a new 4-H district so that it rotates around the state. This year it will be held in Glenwood Springs, September 30 – October 1 with a variety of special activities! Registration will be $25. Complete information and registration details will be available later in the summer!

4-H Kids Soaring to New Heights!

“Team America Rocketry Challenge”

These words may mean little to you but to five students it means a lot. Hannah Pullen, Samuel Pullen, Wyatt Wear, Silas Graff, and Nate Barton are all part of the El Paso County Colorado TARC Team 1.  These five strangers came together to reach one difficult and amazing goal. The Challenge this year was to launch a rocket 750 feet in the air. It also had to come down in about 40-45 seconds. To make the challenge a little bit more interesting we had to launch with an egg in the rocket. It made the challenge a lot more difficult for all of us. We went through months of building and launching to get the perfect design. Once we did that we launched and launched and got tons of data. We decided to try to qualify to go to Virginia. We got a score of 6! (Zero being the best.)  We were going to Finals in The Plains, Virginia. When we finally did get to The Plains we did some practice launches to get the altitude just right. In Virginia the altitude is about sea level so we had to adjust our rocket. The day of Finals came and we were all stoked. We were in and out of the prep tent in 6 min. The First to launch was a pretty big deal for us, and we were that first launch. What we did not see coming is that the humidity would add drag to our rocket. It looked like the cloud grabbed our rocket and held it down. The sad part was you could see the moisture hanging there. We only went about 708 feet. The time was perfect at 42.32 seconds. For a while we were in first place. Till the second team launched. Out of the 100 teams there from across the nation we got 57^th, but if you look at the 607 teams that entered we are high in the ranks. This experience was amazing, and I would not change it for the world. I encourage all youth from 7^th to 12^th grade to enter this competition.

-Written by Hannah Pullen
Secretary of the El Paso County Colorado 4-h TARC Team

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 4

Dates to Remember:

* May 30: University holiday, offices closed
* June 3: Colorado 4-H Foundation 16th Annual Paul Hoshiko Golf Tournament, Windsor, CO
* June 15: National 4-H Conference applications due, State 4-H Office
* June 15: National 4-H Congress recommendations due, State 4-H Office
* June 15:  Youth Leadership and Citizenship applications due, State 4-H Office
* June 17:  Shooting Sports Family Camp, Victor, CO
* June 20-24: State 4-H Conference, CSU Campus, Fort Collins
* June 25 – July 2: Citizenship Washington Focus, Washington, DC

Daniels Fund Scholarship awardees announced!

We are excited to announce this year’s class of Daniels Scholars. As a community-based scholarship program, the Daniels Fund works closely with over 600 Referral Agencies that nominated some 2050 candidates this year. We sincerely wish that we could have provided scholarships to each one of these outstanding young people, but this simply is not possible.

A complete list of all scholarship recipients is posted on the Daniels Fund website, http://www.danielsfund.org/. 

Thank you for all that you do to help encourage and support students applying for the Daniels Scholarship. We are grateful to you for helping us further Bill Daniels’ mission of ‘making life better…one individual at a time.’

Congratulations to you all! – Ellen Butler

Colten Karl Rohleder, Elbert County
Eleanor Marie Stewart, Phillips County
Jordan John Sharpe, Baca County
Lexie Kate Hoskins, Otero County

2011 4-H Japanese Exchange

Below is  a program description for the one-month inbound Japanese exchange.  Japan is planning to send the planned delegation to Colorado.  Please promote this program in your county.  This is one important way we can support the people of Japan in the aftermath of the tragedies which have occurred in the last week.

4-H/JAPANESE EXCHANGE – HOST FAMILIES NEEDED – ONE MONTH

Japanese families need our support more than ever this year in the wake of the recent tragedies which have occurred in Japan.  All three Japanese organizations have reported that they are sending exchangees to the United States during the summer of 2011.

Host families are needed for 65 inbound Japanese boys and girls, ages 12-21, coming to Colorado through the 2011 inbound Colorado-Japan Teen Exchange.  Hosting dates are July 23 – August 18. 

This program is coordinated through Colorado State University and has been running since 1975.

Host families do not need to be a member of 4-H and may reside in urban, suburban, or rural settings throughout Colorado.  They may share a room with their host sibling.  Matches are made on the basis of same sex and close in age, as well as some common interests.  Note:  Host siblings may be as young as nine to match with a 12 year old Japanese participant.

All participants are 100 percent medically covered with 4-H insurance and may participate in host family vacations, camping trips, youth camps.  They are expected to become part of the family, including attending church, helping with household chores, following house rules, and participating in other aspects of US daily life.  The program covers costs for the exchange.  Each participant has his/her own spending money.

Japanese participants will attend an orientation in Denver before going to host families and a debriefing in Denver before returning to Japan. Carpools are planned to transport delegates to homes if host families are not able to pick up or return their exchange student.  Orientation for host families is done in Denver.  In addition, there will be a host family orientation in the Montrose/Grand Junction/Delta area.

Host siblings have the option of traveling to Japan to participate in a four or seven-week exchange while staying with Japanese host families and learning Japanese culture.

HOST FAMILIES NEEDED – 4-H/FLEX EXCHANGE (10 MONTHS) – 2011-2012

Host families are needed for FLEX (Future Leaders Exchange) students. This program is funded by the U.S. State Department to instill democratic principles in exchange participants from the New Independent States (NIS) of the former Soviet Union (now called Eurasia): Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.  Colorado will host five participants, ages 15-18, who will stay with host families and attend high school August 2011 through mid- June 2012.

These delegates are proficient in English, have excellent grades, and speak a minimum of three languages.
They are excited to learn about the United States and share their culture.  Colorado schools have been very receptive to this program due to the high quality of the delegate applications.  55,000 youth apply from these Eurasian countries every year.  1,200 youth are chosen annually to spend 10 months in the United States. 

Since 1993, several thousand students from the NIS have spent one academic year attending schools and living with host families throughout the U.S.  Students are recruited based on English ability, personality factors, social skills, academic achievement and leadership potential.  Prospective students participate in an open, merit-based competition in their home countries and are interviewed by Americans who live in the NIS and work for the American Council of Teachers of Russian.  All students have an extensive orientation to life in America and pursue a full course of study while they are here.  Each country has its own language, culture, history and traditions.  Students and staff where exchange students attend school benefit from learning more about these countries and peoples who were relatively isolated from the rest of the world for nearly 70 years. 

Delegates receive $125/month for personal expenses.  Host families receive $300 initially to assist with “startup” costs.

They are expected to be part of the family:  sharing their culture, learning about the US culture, following house rules, getting good grades in school, helping with household chores, etc.

To review the applications of the delegates available, please contact me for further information.

2011 INBOUND IFYES TO COLORADO – HOST FAMILIES NEEDED

Austria, Daniela Allram, age 19 – July 11 – August 22.  Speaks German, English, and French.  Hobbies are photography, cooking, volunteer fire fighter, and Landjugen (4-H) activities.  Other areas of interest are arts, information technology, and biology.  Father owns a transport company, and mother is an office worker.  She is current attending a higher vocational school.

Germany, Charlotte Schweikart, age 19 – June 20 – September 10.  Speaks German, English, and some French.  Hobbies are friends, yoga, badminton, card and board games, music, reading, and skiing.  Other areas of interest are learning about American culture/people, as well as agriculture in the US.   She is a youth group advisor.   Parents own a winery/30-acre vineyard.  She graduated from school in March and expects to attend a university.

Greece, Katerina  Arzoglou, age 18 – July 12 – August 18.  Speaks Greek and English.  Hobbies are camping, swimming, dancing, walking reading, pets.  Other areas of interest are youth development, agriculture, environment, recreation, culture, horses, landscaping, production of various plants, and animal production.   Father is a plant producer, and mother is a salesperson.  She is currently attending the American Farm School in Greece.

Switzerland, Karin Bartsch, age 20 – June 20 – September 10.  Speaks German and English.  Hobbies are riding horses, walking, and skiing.  Other areas of interest are farming and agriculture.  Parents operate a farm with milk cows.  She is currently a retail assistant and hopes to take over her parents’ farm in the future.

Taiwan, You-Ren Fang (Joyce), age 22.  Speaks Chinese and English.  Hobbies are jazz, classical music, reading.  Other areas of interest are agriculture, agriculture economics and policy, environment, youth development.  She is a 4-H club leader/consultant.  Parents are business owners.  She is currently studying bio-industry communication/development at National Taiwan University.

Inbound IFYEs from Germany, Switzerland, and Taiwan will attend National IFYE Orientation in Wichita, Kansas, prior to arriving in Colorado.  They will also attend State 4-H Conference at CSU June 20-24.

IFYEs generally stay with a host family for two-three weeks.  The goal is for these exchange participants to learn about everyday life in the United States by participating in the homestay experience.  All delegates have medical insurance and personal spending money.

Please contact me at the State 4-H Office for more information regarding these IFYEs; 970-491-2711, Courtney.loflin@colostate.edu
- Courtney Loflin, Colorado 4-H International Programs Coordinator

THE GREATEST SUCCESS OCCURS WHEN FAMILIES TREAT THE DELEGATES AS A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY, RATHER THAN A “GUEST.”

Broomfield County 4-H member Selected for Mongolian Exchange Trip! 

Caitlin Lanzavecchia will be traveling to Mongolia this summer on a Wyoming exchange trip. Selections were based on a written application and also through an interview process. Please read below for further information.

Thirty youth will visit Mongolia through Wyoming 4-H leadership program.

Wyoming State 4-H specialists will shepherd 30 youth and five adult chaperones from eight states to Mongolia this summer in a leadership partnership with the Mongolian 4-H Youth Organization.

Enhancing Global Perspectives in Youth is funded by a $267,434 grant from the United States Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and administered by the University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service. The Mongolian group is in the country’s capital, Ulaanbaatar.

The group will leave June 16 and return July 15.

“The program will provide an opportunity for students to experience firsthand knowledge of foreign cultures and to collaborate on solving global natural resource and environmental issues,” said Warren Crawford, youth development specialist with Wyoming 4-H.  

Kim Reaman, state 4-H volunteer management specialist, will also accompany the group.

 “This type of experience can be life changing and start a young person down the path to being an involved, global citizen,” she said. “My first international experience was through the International 4-H Youth Exchange to Jamaica. I have had a heart for international programs and the effect they have on a young person’s life ever since. ”

Youth were selected through an application and interview process from the 13-state western region of the land-grant universities Cooperative Extension Service. The finalists selected are from Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

Reaman and Crawford traveled to Mongolia last September, paid for by the UW College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Global Perspectives program, to provide technical assistance and training for the newly established Mongolian 4-H program.  While in Mongolia, they had many opportunities to develop and lay the groundwork for this exchange program.

“For most of the stay, the students will live with a Mongolian host family and experience the Mongolian way of life,” said Crawford. “While we are there, we will be learning about environmental issues such as renewable energy, water quality and land restoration and reclamation.”

Youth will also participate in community service projects in and around the capital city of Ulaanbaatar.

Participants and their hometowns are:

Alaska – Mariah McCoy, Chugiak; Kira O’Donoghue, Fairbanks; Peter Stortz, adult chaperone, Palmer
Arizona – Christine Mackey, Anik Regan, Tucson
Colorado – Caitlin Lanzavecchia, Broomfield
Idaho – Molly Myers, Boise; Jeannine Sampo and Killian Sampo, Lowman
Oregon – Emily Cackler, Buxton; Nicholas Morales, Medford; Erynne van Zee, Michael Boggess, Samuel Greydanus, Corvallis; Jaden Bales, Imbler; Shelby Worthing, Prineville; Zachary Lauritzen, adult chaperone, Corvallis
Utah – Alexis Schmid, Sandy; Jenessa Gosar, Manila; Z. Quinn Chandler, Ogden; Alicia Christensen, adult chaperone, Salt Lake City
Washington – Miranda Bean, Ridgefield
Wyoming – Jed Christensen, Alta; Melanie Whitmore, Bear River; Wyatt Slagowski, Farson; Rebel Rauterkus, Freedom; Elizabeth Barlow, Gillette; Jessica Grant, Glenrock; Alanna Elder, Rebecca Garner, Laramie; Kristy Armstrong, Lyman; Thomas Shaffer, Pinedale; Zachery Anderson, Thermopolis; Kelly Barlow, adult chaperone, Gillette; Erin Sinclair, adult chaperone, Cheyenne

Congratulations Caitlin!
- Ellen Butler

Award Applications Due

I just wanted to remind all of you about the two awards that the State 4-H Officer sponsor and present at State Conference.  The State 4-H Officer Team is proud to announce that the Outstanding 4-H Leader Award will now be known as the Raleigh Brooks Outstanding Leader Award.  Raleigh will present this award at State Conference.  The outstanding youth award is now the Mile High Outstanding
4-H Youth Leader Award. 

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4-HSenateOutstandingAdultLeaderNominationForm.doc
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4-HSenateOutstandingAdultLeaderNominationForm.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4-HSenateOutstandingYouthLeaderNominationForm.doc
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4-HSenateOutstandingYouthLeaderNominationForm.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/MileHighAwardPoster.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/WantedPoster-RaleighBrooks.pdf

There are two posters advertising these awards.  The nomination forms are due back to that state 4-H office by June 1^st.

Please honor those hard working volunteer 4-H adult and youth leaders in your county by nominating them for these two awards.
- Connie Cecil

 4-H Social Media Training

Social Media Training – Webinar Series
Join National 4-H Council for its premiere 4-H Social Media webinar series on Wednesdays in May and June.

These interactive and instructive 45-minute tutorials will help you develop social media strategies that create platforms that are engaging, interactive, safe and effective. Built for those who are new to social media, as well as advanced users, this series will help you harness the power of Facebook and Twitter to communicate with a variety of audiences. You’ll learn how to generate content, build community, increase participation and how to do it all in a safe manner for youth and adults alike.

To attend, RSVP to individual sessions in the social media webinar series; we will reply with instructions on how to join the webinar. 

Questions? Contact Ashley Lusk at 4Hmarketing@4-H.org 

- Basic Users

Content Generation- Wednesday, June 1, 2011, 2PM  EST
Generating content can be easy when you use the incredible resources of the 4-H Community. Learn how to build an editorial calendar, schedule your updates in advance using tools like Hootsuite, and how to use eXtension to collect general content for your social media outlets.

- Advanced Users

Online Safety Best Practices-  - Wednesday, June 8, 2011, 2 PM  EST
The best way to build a 4-H network is to create a secure online community for both adults and youth. Social media experts will provide you with an outline of best practices for adult volunteers who may be interacting with youth online, as well as a series of recommended privacy settings to keep youth and adults safe on your pages.

Measuring your Impact- Wednesday,  June 15, 2011, 2 PM  EST
Make sure your efforts are generating the maximum impact. Discover a series of free metric systems including Facebook Insights, Hootsuite and more.

- Connie Cecil

Rocky Mountain Adventure Camp for Military Teens 14-18 FREE!

Attached is a newly revised brochure for the five Rocky Mountain Camps for military teens ages 14-18. This is a $450 experience and free to military teens. Transportation is provided too. This camp is for youth who have a family member active duty, retired National Guard and Reserves or someone in their family who are military, like a brother, sister or uncle. We need your help in getting the word out to the youth as soon as possible – we are not filled up yet!!!  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/RockyMountainAdventureCampBrochure.pdf

Shauna Vail Woods, OMK Program Coordinator – Colorado Military Liaison
Operation: Military Kids

4-H Conference Center DC Tours Accepted by NASSP

Big News! Our Wonders of Washington (WOW) http://www.wowwashington.org/trip/? DC tour program has been accepted by the National Association of Secondary School Principals for the National Advisory List of Student Contests and Activities for 2011-2012.

The purpose of the National Advisory List is to provide information regarding a wide variety of student program opportunities. The Committee reviews all programs based on NASSP developed standards in the following areas: educational, financial, organizational, promotional, adjudication and awards. Programs that, in the opinion of the Committee, meet the guidelines are placed on the National Advisory List.

For over 15 years the WOW program has helped students experience the living classroom of Washington DC while also taking the burden of trip planning off teachers and administrators. Combining DC tours with educational workshops, WOW brings history and government to life for students in grades 6-12.  For more information on the program visit the Wonders of Washington homepage or contact a member of our sales team!

- The Sales & Planning Team, National 4-H Youth Conference Center

2011 National Science Experiment

Announcing the 2011 National Science Experiment: Wired for Wind!

4-H National Headquarters and National 4-H Council are pleased to reveal that the 2011 National Science Experiment is Wired for Wind, an in-depth look at renewable energy technologies in the form of wind-power. Developed by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension program, this three-tiered experiment will help 4-H young people to enhance their science, engineering, technology and applied math skills by allowing them to:

• Design, build and test two different wind turbine models,
• Experiment with variables by examining three different blade pitch angles to determine the effect of pitch on rotor speed,
• Relate their scientific experiences back to their own lives by determining how their communities can harness the power of wind and create a more sustainable and clean energy system, and
• Determine the best location for a potential wind farm in their state or local area by calculating wind power and studying wind data and maps.

This year, 4-H National Youth Science Day will take place on October 5, 2011. On this day, hundreds of thousands of young people across the United States and the world will simultaneously become scientists for a day as they connect important scientific lessons to civic engagement.

4-H youth are a living, breathing, culture-changing movement for doing the right thing, breaking through obstacles and pushing the country forward to successfully face the challenges of the future. Participation in 4-H National Youth Science Day is meant to help spark an early passion for science, engineering and math and to encourage young people to consider these paths of study and future careers.

To learn more about 4-H National Youth Science Day, how you can participate locally or to download program materials, go to www.4-H.org/NYSD

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 4

Dates to Remember:

* April 12-14: CAE4-HA, Glenwood Springs
* April 14-17: National 4-H Collegiate Conference, Atlanta, GA
* May 1:  4HOnline Youth Enrollment data due
* May 7-14: Western Regional Leaders Forum, Seattle, WA
* May 15:  Host families applications due, State 4-H Office
* May 30:  University holiday, offices closed

Rodeo China Announcement!

The Colorado 4-H program has been asked to take part in an effort to introduce the people of China to the culture of the American West through the art and science of rodeo. In October 2011, an eight-day PRCA rodeo will be held in Beijing, China, at the Bird’s Nest (site of the 2008 Olympic Games).
The Colorado 4-H Program, Colorado FFA, and the National Little Britches Rodeo Association (NLBRA) have been asked to provide youth to travel to China to teach Chinese youth in this effort. The youth component of this project will directly involve American youth teaching rodeo events and livestock handling principles to approximately 3,000 Chinese youth.

Twenty-five Colorado 4-H members will be selected to travel to China on this expense-paid opportunity. 4-H members must be 15 years-of-age or older as of October 1, 2011, to participate in this unique event. Ten adult chaperons will also be selected to assist and travel with the Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team. We are seeking 4-H members and chaperons with the following characteristics:
• Ability to work well in teams
• Interest and/or experience in working with diverse cultures
• Hard working with a positive attitude
• Rodeo and/or livestock experience
Applications are due to the Colorado State 4-H Office by May 15, 2011. The Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team selections will be announced on June 23, during the 2011 Colorado State 4-H Conference being held on the Colorado State University campus in Fort Collins.

Additional information and applications for 4-H members and chaperons can be found at: http://www.colorado4h.org/rodeochina

Rodeo China has a website with basic information at:  www.rodeochina.com

For more information contact Jeff Goodwin at 970.491.6422 or jeff.goodwin@colostate.edu

Please call if you have questions!

2011 4-H Japanese Exchange

Below is  a program description for the one-month inbound Japanese exchange. In spite of the recent disaster in Japan, they are still planning to send a delegation to Colorado.  Please promote this program in your county.  This is one important way we can support the people of Japan in the aftermath of the tragedies which have occurred in the last week.

March 18, 2011: 4-H/JAPANESE EXCHANGE – HOST FAMILIES NEEDED – ONE MONTH

Japanese families need our support more than ever this year in the wake of the recent tragedies which have occurred in Japan.  All three Japanese organizations have reported that they are sending exchangees to the United States during the summer of 2011.

Host families are needed for 65 inbound Japanese boys and girls, ages 12-21, coming to Colorado through the 2011 inbound Colorado-Japan Teen Exchange.  Hosting dates are July 23 – August 18.

This program is coordinated through Colorado State University and has been running since 1975.

Host families do not need to be a member of 4-H and may reside in urban, suburban, or rural settings throughout Colorado.  They may share a room with their host sibling.  Matches are made on the basis of same sex and close in age, as well as some common interests.  Note:  Host siblings may be as young as nine to match with a 12 year old Japanese participant.

All participants are 100 percent medically covered with 4-H insurance and may participate in host family vacations, camping trips, youth camps.  They are expected to become part of the family, including attending church, helping with household chores, following house rules, and participating in other aspects of US daily life.  The program covers costs for the exchange.  Each participant has his/her own spending money.

Japanese participants will attend an orientation in Denver before going to host families and a debriefing in Denver before returning to Japan. Carpools are planned to transport delegates to homes if host families are not able to pick up or return their exchange student.  Orientation for host families is done in Denver.  In addition, there will be a host family orientation in the Montrose/Grand Junction/Delta area.

Host siblings have the option of traveling to Japan to participate in a four or seven-week exchange while staying with Japanese host families and learning Japanese culture.

THE GREATEST SUCCESS OCCURS WHEN FAMILIES TREAT THE DELEGATES AS A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY, RATHER THAN A “GUEST.”
Courtney Loflin, E-mail:  Courtney.loflin@colostate.edu, or call 970.491.2711.

- Ellen Butler

Save Money Shopping and Raise Funds for 4-H

Yes, this can be done with the My Shopping Genie computer program.  The Colorado 4-H Foundation is partnering with My Net Universe to offer this opportunity for Colorado 4-H families and friends.

To use the program go to the Colorado 4-H Foundation web site http://www.co4hfoundation.colostate.edu/shopping.shtml and follow the directions for installing the program.  After the program is installed, each time a search engine (Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc) is used the 4-H Foundation Logo will appear in the lower left hand corner.  Several store names and the words compare, map and deals are also displayed.  Each time a store names or the word “compare” are clicked the best item prices are displayed and the 4-H Foundation receives a small donation.

For more information contact Gary Small at (970)491-1537 or gary.small@colostate.edu Thank you for supporting the Colorado 4-H program.
- Gary Small

Arbor Day Poster Contest 2011

Please click on the links provided for more information about the 2011 Arbor Day Poster Contest!

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-PosterContestMediaRelease.pdf

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-COArborDayPosterContestRules.pdf

- Ellen Butler

100,000 4-H Members Expected to Complete the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award Challenge

WASHINGTON, April 5, 2011 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making a significant commitment to participating in the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award challenge, aiming to have 100,000 4-H members complete the challenge by September 2011. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke today to 300 children and adults at the 2011 National 4-H Conference in Chevy Chase, Md. He recognized the positive influence 4-H membership and programs have in communities throughout the country and encouraged all attendees to make healthy choices.

“Healthy living has been a fundamental principle of 4-H as members ‘pledge their health to better living,’” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “USDA has long been committed to nutrition and healthy living, and I’m looking forward to seeing many 4-H’ers helping us meet – or exceed – our goal. As tomorrow’s leaders, 4-H members have an important role to play in winning the future, starting with a commitment to healthy living.”

4-H strives to equip young people with the knowledge and skills for healthy living that will prepare them physically, emotionally and socially to meet the challenges of the 21st century. 4-H initially committed to this goal during the November 29, 2010, roll-out of the Let’s Move! Faith and Communities Initiative led by First Lady Michelle Obama.

4-H is making this goal a top priority. National 4-H Council and Kraft Foods are offering incentives for each county that sponsors 4-H to encourage local young people to pursue the award. Additionally, during April and May, employees from USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), the parent organization to 4-H National Headquarters, will participate with 4-H members, families and volunteers.

The Presidential Active Lifestyle Award recognizes those who log their recommended physical activity for six consecutive weeks, five days a week (60 minutes for kids, 30 minutes for adults). More information about the program and how to get involved is available at http://www.presidentschallenge.org/natl4-H. Let’s Move! is the First Lady’s initiative to solve the challenge of childhood obesity within a generation. Let’s Move! Faith and Communities is designed to support local efforts and highlight accomplishments in communities across the country. The program looks to work with community leaders, learn from what they are doing in neighborhoods, and share those efforts as broadly as possible.

4-H National Headquarters seeks to promote positive youth development, facilitate learning and engage young people with the efforts of USDA and the land-grant universities to enhance quality of life. Nearly 6 million young people, ages 5-19, participate in 4-H youth development programs in all 50 states, territories and military installations worldwide.  More information is available at www.national4-hheadquarters.gov.      

Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people’s daily lives and the nation’s future. More information is available at: www.nifa.usda.gov.

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4H-PALA-FAQ.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/GroupAdminSheet.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/Million-PALA-ChallengeCertificate.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/PALA-SimpleFlyer.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/PALA-ChallengeInternational.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/PALA-ChallengeOutside.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/PALA-KraftPromotionReport.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/ParticipantInfoSheet.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/TheMillionPALAChallengeFAQ.pdf

- Ellen Butler

2011 Cowboy Camp 

Every year young horse enthusiasts travel to Fort Collins, Colorado to spend five days at the Colorado State University (CSU) Summer Youth Horsemanship Camp.  The camp is designed to be both an educational and fun experience for youth.  English and Western disciplines are available and are taught by CSU faculty and students.  Each day the campers will experience a combination of riding lessons and lectures on topics such as safety, grooming, nutrition, and horse behavior.  Ice-breakers and additional interactive activities, like swimming and crafts, are also included in the camp.

Two sessions are offered every June (Session One: June 13-18 , 2011 & Session Two: June 19-24, 2011).  Most campers  (restricted to ages 10-15) overnight at the CSU dormitories supervised by counselors.   Meals, transportation, and horse boarding are included for overnight campers. An additional day camp has been made available to campers aged 10-18 who would prefer to drive in each day and make their own accommodation arrangements.  Campers are encouraged to bring their own horses and approximately six CSU horses are available to lease.  Campers should have previous horse experience before attending this camp.

Detailed camp information, including logistics and payment details, are available at www.csuequine.com.  Inquiries and registration forms can be sent to megan.grieve@colostate.edu.   We’re looking forward to another great camp this year… One filled with great horses, good kids, and a ton of memories!

Click on http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-CowboyCamp.pdf for further information.

4-H Judging Contests

Elbert County’s Eastern Slope Judging Contests are coming up.
Please forward the entry forms to your judging team coaches.

Eastern Slope Judging Contests

• Livestock Judging Contest on May 7

• Horse Judging Contest on May 14

• Rabbit Judging Contest on June 18

Click on these links for further information:

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-ES-RabbitEntryForms.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-ES-HorseJudgingEntry.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-ES-LivestockEntry.pdf

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 3

Dates to Remember:

* April 1:  State Scholarship applications due
* April 2-7: National 4-H Conference, National 4-H Center, Chevy Chase, MD
* April 12-14: CAE4-HA, Glenwood Springs
* April 14-17: National 4-H Collegiate Conference, Atlanta, GA
* May 1:  4HOnline Youth Enrollment data due

Rodeo China Announcement!

The Colorado 4-H program has been asked to take part in an effort to introduce the people of China to the culture of the American West through the art and science of rodeo. In October 2011, an eight-day PRCA rodeo will be held in Beijing, China, at the Bird’s Nest (site of the 2008 Olympic Games).

The Colorado 4-H Program, Colorado FFA, and the National Little Britches Rodeo Association (NLBRA) have been asked to provide youth to travel to China to teach Chinese youth in this effort. The youth component of this project will directly involve American youth teaching rodeo events and livestock handling principles to approximately 3,000 Chinese youth.

Twenty-five Colorado 4-H members will be selected to travel to China on this expense-paid opportunity. 4-H members must be 15 years-of-age or older as of October 1, 2011, to participate in this unique event. Ten adult chaperons will also be selected to assist and travel with the Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team. We are seeking 4-H members and chaperons with the following characteristics:
•    Ability to work well in teams
•    Interest and/or experience in working with diverse cultures
•    Hard working with a positive attitude
•    Rodeo and/or livestock experience

Applications are due to the Colorado State 4-H Office by May 15, 2011. The Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team selections will be announced on June 23, during the 2011 Colorado State 4-H Conference being held on the Colorado State University campus in Fort Collins.

Additional information and applications for 4-H members and chaperons can be found at: http://www.colorado4h.org/rodeochina

Rodeo China has a website with basic information at:  www.rodeochina.com

For more information contact Jeff Goodwin at 970.491.6422.
- Ellen Butler

4-H Night at the Nuggets

4-H Nights at the Nuggets is Saturday, April 9.  Please be sure to go to the website below to order your tickets. The Nuggets are on a winning streak right now, so this would be a great time to see them!

Remember, this is a contest for the 4-H Districts and that is the only way that we can make your tickets count.  This is what the count looks like so far:  District 11- 22 tickets, District 3- 6 tickets, District 13- 4 tickets.  So get out there and promote your district and make your ticket sales count!

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4hNightNuggets.pdf
- Connie Cecil

2011 4-H Japanese Exchange

Below is  a program description for the one-month inbound Japanese exchange. In spite of the recent disaster in Japan, they are still planning to send a delegation to Colorado.  Please promote this program in your county.  This is one important way we can support the people of Japan in the aftermath of the tragedies which have occurred in the last week.

March 18, 2011: 4-H/JAPANESE EXCHANGE – HOST FAMILIES NEEDED – ONE MONTH

Japanese families need our support more than ever this year in the wake of the recent tragedies which have occurred in Japan.  All three Japanese organizations have reported that they are sending exchangees to the United States during the summer of 2011.

Host families are needed for 65 inbound Japanese boys and girls, ages 12-21, coming to Colorado through the 2011 inbound Colorado-Japan Teen Exchange.  Hosting dates are July 23 – August 18.

This program is coordinated through Colorado State University and has been running since 1975.

Host families do not need to be a member of 4-H and may reside in urban, suburban, or rural settings throughout Colorado.  They may share a room with their host sibling.  Matches are made on the basis of same sex and close in age, as well as some common interests.  Note:  Host siblings may be as young as nine to match with a 12 year old Japanese participant.

All participants are 100 percent medically covered with 4-H insurance and may participate in host family vacations, camping trips, youth camps.  They are expected to become part of the family, including attending church, helping with household chores, following house rules, and participating in other aspects of US daily life.  The program covers costs for the exchange.  Each participant has his/her own spending money.

Japanese participants will attend an orientation in Denver before going to host families and a debriefing in Denver before returning to Japan. Carpools are planned to transport delegates to homes if host families are not able to pick up or return their exchange student.  Orientation for host families is done in Denver.  In addition, there will be a host family orientation in the Montrose/Grand Junction/Delta area.

Host siblings have the option of traveling to Japan to participate in a four or seven-week exchange while staying with Japanese host families and learning Japanese culture.

THE GREATEST SUCCESS OCCURS WHEN FAMILIES TREAT THE DELEGATES AS A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY, RATHER THAN A “GUEST.”
Courtney Loflin, E-mail:  Courtney.loflin@colostate.edu, or call 970.491.2711.

- Ellen Butler

Save Money Shopping and Raise Funds for 4-H

Yes, this can be done with the My Shopping Genie computer program.  The Colorado 4-H Foundation is partnering with My Net Universe to offer this opportunity for Colorado 4-H families and friends.

To use the program go to the Colorado 4-H Foundation web site http://www.co4hfoundation.colostate.edu/shopping.shtml and follow the directions for installing the program.  After the program is installed, each time a search engine (Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc) is used the 4-H Foundation Logo will appear in the lower left hand corner.  Several store names and the words compare, map and deals are also displayed.  Each time a store names or the word “compare” are clicked the best item prices are displayed and the 4-H Foundation receives a small donation.

For more information contact Gary Small at (970)491-1537 or gary.small@colostate.edu Thank you for supporting the Colorado 4-H program.
- Gary Small

4-H Foundation Scholarship Applications due April 1

The Colorado 4-H Foundation 2011 scholarship application forms must be emailed to bill.gargan@colostate.edu by April 1.  Supporting documents (letters of recommendation and grade transcripts) can be emailed to the same address or sent to: Colorado 4-H Foundation, 4040 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-4040.

Each year the Foundation awards 12 scholarships worth over $10,000 to help Colorado 4-H members continue their educations.  Three scholarships are available for any field of study and any institution of higher learning, while others specify majors and schools. Please go to the following website address http://www.co4hfoundation.colostate.edu/scholarships.shtml to see the specific criteria for each scholarship.  For more information contact Bill Gargan at 970.491.2768, bill.gargan@colostate.edu or Gary Small at 970.491.1537, gary.small@colostate.edu.
- Gary Small

Logan County 4-H Position Available

Logan County Extension Office (county-funded position) is seeking to hire a full-time 4-H/youth professional.  Horticulture background and experience desirable.  Apply by April 1, 2011.  To see the full job description and obtain an application go to www.logancountyco.gov.

Click on this link for the position announcement:  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/YouthHorticulturePosition.pdf�
- Ellen Butler

Livestock for Small Acres Webinar Series Free!

Handling Cattle and Other Livestock Webinar March 28, 2011 Noon-1:00 pm MST

Join Temple Grandin, the most influential autistic person in the world, as she discusses animal behavior and handling techniques.  Temple’s professional training  as an animal scientist and her history as a person with autism, gives her a unique perspective on understanding animal behavior.  She will talk about what frightens and distracts animals, offer pointers on fixing small or large handling facilities, how to be safe with bulls, and discuss her insight on animal behavior.  Presented by Dr. Temple Grandin, Professor of Animal Science at CSU, and author of many books including, “Animals In Translation.”

Small Scale Cattle Production Webinar
May 18, 2011
Noon-1:00 pm MST

This introductory course is geared toward small-scale operations and homesteaders. Learn about the various options for beef and dairy production.  We will discuss pros and cons, costs, management needs, challenges, marketing, and more.  Presented by Jason Ahola, CSU Animal Science Associate Professor .

Raising Sheep and Goats Webinar
August 11, 2011
Noon-1:00 pm MST

Basic goat and sheep management will be discussed in this webinar geared for landowners who just started or who are interested in getting started with raising sheep or goats.  Participants will learn about feed and nutrition, health concerns, daily care, costs, housing, and products that sheep and goats produce.  Dr. Nancy Irlbeck, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs for College of Agricultural Sciences at CSU, will present this webinar.

Webinars on Pigs, Poultry and Chickens, and Llamas and Alpacas will be announced soon!

Please click on this link for further information:  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/LivestockWebinarSeriesFlyer.pdf

For more information and to register for a webinar contact Jennifer Cook at 303.659.7004 ext.3 or email jennifer.cook@colostate.edu.
- Ellen Butler

National 4-H Dairy Conference

Below are two links for initial information regarding the 2011 National 4-H Dairy Conference (NDC).  We would like as many people as possible to be aware of, and have the chance to participate in, this educational, hands-on experience.

Please note that the first response is for a projected number of participants and for the contact information for your state/province contact person.

Information on the National 4-H Dairy Conference can also be found on-line at http://www.uwex.edu/ces/4h/events/dairyconf/index.cfm.

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/National4hDairyConferece-57th.pdf

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/National4hDairyConferece-Form.doc

Due to scheduling conflicts,  the materials were not sent out in February.  Thus, the response deadline has been extended to April 15, 2011. I apologize for any inconvenience this later mailing may cause you. For further information please contact Peter J. Nordin, 608-262-0575, or email peter.nordin@ces.uwex.edu
- Ellen Butler

2011 Arbor Day Poster Contest 2011

Please click on the links provided below for more information on the 2011 Arbor Day Poster Contest!

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-PosterContestMediaRelease.pdf

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-COArborDayPosterContestRules.pdf

- Ellen Butler

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 2

Dates to Remember:

* April 1:  State Scholarship applications due
* April 2-7: National 4-H Conference, National 4-H Center, Chevy Chase, MD
* April 12-14: CAE4-HA, Glenwood Springs
* April 14-17: National 4-H Collegiate Conference, Atlanta, GA
* May 1:  4HOnline Youth Enrollment data due

Rodeo China Announcement!

The Colorado 4-H program has been asked to take part in an effort to introduce the people of China to the culture of the American West through the art and science of rodeo. In October 2011, an eight-day PRCA rodeo will be held in Beijing, China, at the Bird’s Nest (site of the 2008 Olympic Games).

The Colorado 4-H Program, Colorado FFA, and the National Little Britches Rodeo Association (NLBRA) have been asked to provide youth to travel to China to teach Chinese youth in this effort. The youth component of this project will directly involve American youth teaching rodeo events and livestock handling principles to approximately 3,000 Chinese youth.

Twenty-five Colorado 4-H members will be selected to travel to China on this expense-paid opportunity. 4-H members must be 15 years-of-age or older as of October 1, 2011, to participate in this unique event. Ten adult chaperons will also be selected to assist and travel with the Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team. We are seeking 4-H members and chaperons with the following characteristics:
•    Ability to work well in teams
•    Interest and/or experience in working with diverse cultures
•    Hard working with a positive attitude
•    Rodeo and/or livestock experience

Applications are due to the Colorado State 4-H Office by May 15, 2011. The Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team selections will be announced on June 23, during the 2011 Colorado State 4-H Conference being held on the Colorado State University campus in Fort Collins.

Additional information and applications for 4-H members and chaperons can be found at: http://www.colorado4h.org/rodeochina

Rodeo China has a website with basic information at:  www.rodeochina.com

For more information contact Jeff Goodwin at 970.491.6422 or jeff.goodwin@colostate.edu
- Ellen Butler

Our Condolences to the Sheridan Family

Shane Sheridan is known across Colorado as a long-time 4-H member and current reporting IFYE who returned in December from Austria and Switzerland.  Sadly, his brother, Jay Sheridan, a policeman in Limon, was shot and killed Wednesday night, March 9, while serving a warrant. Jay, 27 years old,  was a six-year  police veteran. Jay was also a long-time 4-H member.  He was married and the father of a young child.  The family has a long time history of 4-H involvement in Elbert County.

The funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, March 15, 11 a.m., at the Limon High School Gymnasium, 874 F Avenue, Limon.  Public visitation is scheduled for Monday, March 14, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Love Funeral Home, 225 F Avenue, Limon.

Condolences may be sent to Jay’s parents at:

Mary Ann and Tim Sheridan
34000 County Road 94
Simla, Colorado 80835

A 4-H Growing Field Update

Hello Leadership Mentors-

A little over a month ago we met in Denver at the LDC conference and I was so impressed with the confidence and ability of each one of you. You do amaze me! My name is Bobbi Winslow and I’m the project manager for the Growing Field project.

Melissa and Adam have been hard at work on your website and it has been designed based on all of your suggestions from the think tanks. Thank you for being patient with us as we worked to get the site up and going… It is ready to go!!!    Some of you have even logged in and are reporting.  That is fantastic.

We hope you find it is easy to get the information you need to get started on the 4-H Growing Field service project. Sign in and send a thanks to the website team, so they know how much we appreciate their work.

If you haven’t already talked to a teacher to set up a time in the classroom and you need some suggestions, check the website under the heading Leadership Mentors. There are samples of notes you can use for conversation starters. You’ll want to put it in your own words, of course.

Imagine this is the first week after the conference and you’re still excited about getting out into the classrooms. You have a couple of friends who would like to go with you and you call them or talk to them in school.

We’ll hold off on the second book until everyone has a chance to log on and register, you’ve been in the classroom and the teacher has sent their response. Like almost everything else in life, the first time is the most challenging.

Just remember that you can reach me with any questions or comments at bwinslow@growingfield.com.
- Ellen Butler

National Youth Traffic Safety Month

NOYS Member Grants and Award
Through funding from The Allstate Foundation NOYS is offering our member organizations that serve youth an opportunity to apply for grant funds of $2,000 per organization to help fund their efforts to promote National Youth Traffic Safety Month. A total of $12,000 will be awarded in grant funds to member organizations with an average award of $2,000 per organization. Additionally, the member organization who has the most National Youth Traffic Safety Month Act Out Loud entries based on chapter average will be awarded $8,000 for their efforts.

Organizations interested in grant funds should submit a 250 word description of how they will promote National Youth Traffic Safety Month to NOYS at info@noys.org by March 25, 2011. From applications, NOYS will select up to 6 organizations. The first installment of at least $1,000 will be sent to organizations in early April. In June, those organizations will submit a report on what they did to promote National Youth Traffic Safety Month with copies of print or electronic outreach. Upon receipt of the completed report, NOYS will pay the second installment to those organizations.
The $8,000 award for the most Act Out Loud entries will be announced May 1, 2011.

Simple steps:

1. Submit 250 word description by March 25, 2011 describing how your organization will promote National Youth Traffic Safety Month to info@noys.org.
2. Indicate your organization is youth serving and has a national outreach.
3. Promote Act Out Loud! Entry deadline is 12:00 AM ET April 11!
4. Make some NOYS!EPA
- Ellen Butler

4-H Robotics Video Contest!

4-H invites any 4-H group that currently participates in robotics programs or teams to submit a video for the 4-H Robotics Video Contest sponsored by Lockheed Martin and JCPenney Afterschool.
Submissions begin on March 15th and will be entered to win a $1000 grand prize, with $500 prizes for the second and third place teams.

Contest Instructions:
To submit your 4-H robotics team video, visit the 4-H Robotics Contest page located at www.facebook.com/4-H . The video submissions will be put to a community vote on the 4-H Facebook page and the winning club/team with the most votes will receive $1,000, with second and third prize winners receiving $500 respectively.

Video submissions must meet the following criteria to be considered:
•    Video must be between one and three minutes long.
•    All robots in the video must include a visible official 4-H clover.
•    The video title must include the words “4-H” and “robot.”
•    Submissions must show a robot (or multiple robots) that were uniquely created and programmed by a 4-H Robotics group.
•    Submissions must demonstrate the robot’s abilities.
•    Participants must explain, within the video, what they have learned about science, technology, engineering and applied math by doing a 4-H robotics project.
•    The video must be posted on Youtube and shared with National 4-H Council through our Facebook upload module. Videos will not be accepted in other formats or on other platforms.

Resources:
4-H’ers can use the Filmmaking curriculum as a resource for video editing and storyboards, and also make use of Youtube’s new basic editing software.
Prize Eligibility:
•    Videos must be posted by youth ages 13 years or older.
•    Only one video per robotics team or club.
•    Video Submission starts: March 15, 2011
•    Submissions close and the page opens for voting on: March 25, 2011 @ 12:00 PM (EST)
•    Winners will be selected on April 8, 2011.

For National 4-H Council’s 4-H Robotics Contest Official Rules visit: www.4-h.org/4-h-robotics-video-contest/
- Willa Williams

Accepting Applications for Environmental Education Grant Funding

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is accepting grant applications for $1.9 million in funding for environmental education projects and programs. The purpose of the grants is to promote environmental stewardship and help develop knowledgeable and responsible students, teachers and citizens. EPA expects to award at least 20 grants nationwide ranging from a minimum of $15,000 to a maximum of $100,000 and will accept applications until May 2, 2011.

The grants provide financial support for innovative projects that design, demonstrate, and/or disseminate environmental education practices, methods, or techniques. Projects should involve environmental education activities that go beyond disseminating information.

EPA will be hosting two conference calls for potential applicants interested in additional information about the application process. The conference calls will take place on March 21, 2011 at 11 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) and April 6 at 2 p.m. (EDT). To participate in the conference calls, dial: 1-866-379-5082, and use conference ID number: 48699133 for the call on March 21. Use conference ID number: 48696117 for the call on April 6.

The Environmental Education Grant Program provides funding to local education agencies, state education or environmental agencies, colleges or universities, not-for-profit organizations, or noncommercial educational broadcasting entities. Tribal education agencies, which are controlled by an Indian tribe, band or nation, may also apply, including a school or community college.

Since the program began, EPA has provided more than $50 million in funding to more than 3,000 agencies and organizations.

More information on eligibility and application materials: http://www.epa.gov/enviroed/grants.html
- Willa Williams

Front Range 4-H Leather Workshop

A Front Range 4-H Leather Workshop will be held on Saturday, March 26, from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. at the El Paso County Extension Office in Colorado Springs. Both members are leaders are welcome to attend!

Workshops include:
Beginner – The New Unit 1: Creative Stamping – learn basic basket stamping and how to create a creative pattern.

Intermediate I – Intro to Swivel Knife Techniques

Intermediate II – Lacing: Double Loop & Mexican Round – learn the basics of correct Lacing in Double Loop and Mexican Round Lace

Advanced I – Perspective in Figure Carving – learn how to create perspective in their figure carving.

Advanced II – Hairy Animals – learn how to create “hair” on carved animals.

Each workshop costs $20, which includes lunch.  Registration/health forms can be found on the Extension website at http://elpasoco.colostate.edu/index.htm.  Please contact Tina Davis at 719.573.9483 for more information.
- Ellen Butler

We need YOU for Program Share at CAE4-HA!

The new program you did in the past year or two might be just the one someone else really needs right now. Or, maybe you have a successful program that you have been doing for what seems like forever!  Program Share at the CAE4-HA Conference is a great way for you to share that program with your colleagues.  With all our new staff,, there are going to be lots of folks who will be thrilled with your ideas.  Please share all of your program ideas with your colleagues, because, as we all know, reinventing the wheel consumes valuable time!

Program Share periods will be interspersed throughout the conference, April 12-14.  You can choose either a five or ten minute block to share your program. (Real short, so it won’t take you long to prepare and present!) A table display area will also be available throughout the conference for display materials. Please indicate your preferences for the amount of time and which day you’d like to present your Program Share on your CAE4-HA Conference registration form. For more  Program Share information, contact Christy Fitzpatrick at 970.491.4424 or Christy.Fitzpatrick@colostate.edu or Gary Small 970.491.1537 or Gary.Small@colostate.edu.
- Ellen Butler

4-H Science Updates

Here are some items that might be of interest to you and your 4-H Science members and volunteers.

1. The deadline for submissions to the National 4-H Video Challenge Contest has been extended until April 1.

2. The 4-H Science Research web page that includes reports and brochures about the YEAK (Youth, Engagement, Attitudes and Knowledge) and Science Implementation studies is now live. http://www.4-h.org/about/youth-development-research/science-program-research/

The following opportunities are not affiliated with 4-H. They are provided for information purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by 4-H National Headquarters, NIFA or USDA.

1. The Buick Achievers Scholarship, funded by the GM Foundation, is designed to help students who are leaders in both the classroom and their communities, but who may not have the financial means to attend college. The Buick Achievers Scholarship Program will award: Up to $25,000 per year for 100 students or $2,000 per year for 1,000 students. More details about the scholarship program, eligibility rules, and selection criteria can be found at www.buickachievers.com. A PDF is available for download and printing at www.buickachievers.com/flier.

2. United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation Scholarship (USGIF) hopes to inspire students who are interested in all that geospatial has to offer to invest their futures in this incredibly exciting and relevant field of study. Deadline is May 2, 2011. For more information visit http://usgif.org/education/scholarships.

3. Google Science Fair: Google has partnered with NASA, CERN, National Geographic, Scientific American, and LEGO to create a totally new kind of STEM competition: a science fair that is more open, inclusive, and global than ever before. The subject categories are broad and encompass all areas of scientific interest. So whether you teach computer science, chemistry, biology or math, you can encourage your youth to enter. The competition is open to students aged 13 to 18 from around the world working on their own or in a team of two or three. Deadline is April 4, 2011. For more information visit http://www.google.com/events/sciencefair/.

2011 4-H Wild Bug Fish Camp Information

I wanted to let you know that information and registration materials for the 2011 4-H Wild Bug Fish Camp are now available online! This year we will be in the Salida area near Maysville at the Angel of Shavano Campground. Please pass this information on to members or families that may be interested. Remember too that youth do not have to be 4-H Members in order to attend! Use the direct link below to access the information!

http://www.4hfishing.org/2011_wbf_camp.html

If you have any questions on the camp information or accessing the online material, contact Mick (mick.livingston@colostate.edu) or Perry (perry.brewer@colostate.edu) 719.346.5571, extension 302. Thanks for your help in spreading the word. We are looking forward to another GREAT camp this year!
- Perry D. Brewer

$2000 Scholarship for Graduating Seniors

The US Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF) has  a $2000 scholarship available to high school  students who are graduating this year.   This is a good opportunity for any of our 4-H’ers who have been working with GIS & GPS to apply.  The scholarships just opened today and are due May 2nd.

More information can be found at: http://usgif.org/education/scholarships
- Willa Williams

Solution to IE Issue with Secure Websites (https)

Back in June of 2010, I mentioned that a new issue had come up with Internet Explorer where a warning message is displayed when you click on a link that points to a secure connection. This issue still exists, but now we have a better solution. The security warning message looks like this:

If you click the YES button, then all of the graphics and layout are stripped and you are left with a blank white page and some black text. If you click the NO button, then you allow the graphical content and layout to appear.  The trouble with this is that every time you click on a link from within a secure website, you will be presented again with this warning message. What a pain!

How do I get around this annoying message?

The solution is fairly simple. Please view a short video to learn how to enable mixed content within Internet Explorer.  Another quick fix is to just use another modern standards-compliant web browser such as Firefox.

Here is a text version of the solution:

From within Internet Explorer:

1. First, click on the TOOLS menu.
2. Next, select INTERNET OPTIONS at the bottom of the list.
3. Click on the SECURITY tab.
4. Click on TRUSTED SITES, and then click on the SITES button.
5. Un-check the box that says “Require server verification (https:) for all sites in this zone”.
6. In the box titled, “Add this website to the zone:”, type “*.colorado4h.org” and click the ADD button. Then click the CLOSE button.
7. Still under TRUSTED SITES, click the CUSTOM LEVEL button.
8. Look for an item called “Display mixed content”, which may be located about half way down the list.
9. Select ENABLE under “Display mixed content” and click the OK button.
10. A warning will likely pop up that says, “Are you sure you wnat to change the settings for this zone?” Click YES.
11. Now click OK on your Internet Options window and it should close.
12. You should now be able to access https:// websites without receiving the security warning message.

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 1

Dates to Remember:

* Jan. 17: University Holiday, offices closed
* Jan. 19: 4-H Day at the National Western Stock Show, Denver
* Jan 29-30: Leadership Development Conference, Denver
* Jan 31: 4-H Day at the Capitol, Denver
* Feb. 11-13: Youth Fest

Water Rockets, Straw Rockets, and Bicycles – STEM and State Fair

You may have noticed we have a few new entries at the State Fair this year.  Here are just a few tips to get you ready.

First, there are many ways to launch bottle rockets.  Some rocket launchers can cost almost $100 and some you can build at home.  The most cost effective and easiest I have used, that require no anchors, are the Aquapods.  http://www.theaquapod.com/ These are the launchers I will use at the State Fair.

For straw rockets, Pitsco(LEGO) has cornered the market with their $169 straw rocket launchers http://www.legoeducation.us/store/detail.aspx?ID=786&bhcp=1.  However, you can build your own launcher for about $10.  One person was kind enough to post a great guide online.  I have attached the PDF to this e-mail.  All of the items can be purchased a hardware store (Home Depot, Lowes) except for the brass tubing.  You can find this at a hobby store (Hobbytown USA).

Finally, the bicycle contest.  When you look at the skills riding course, don’t use cones!  I prefer to use old tennis balls cut in half, these can be donated by your local tennis club.  A great source of information is the League of American Bicyclists at www.bikeleague.org

These three events and nine other 4-H programs will be highlighted through skill-a-thon stations and STEM kits at a training on the Sunday morning of Leadership Development Conference. – Willa L. Williams

2011 Colorado 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certifications

ATTENTION: All those with shooting sports responsibilities …

The 2011 slate of Colorado 4-H Shooting Sports Leader certification trainings have been set. Use the link below to access the dates and locations. (Please see the article below for registration materials!)  http://www.co4hshooting.org/article12212005.html

The 2011 applications and information for the Colorado 4-H Shooting Sports Ambassador Program is now available on the State 4-H Shooting Sports Web Site. Use the link below to access application forms and program information. Deadline for applying for an ambassadorship is JANUARY 14, 2011.
http://www.co4hshooting.org/ss_ambassador_program.html

Please pass this information on to those individuals and families who may be interested. Thank you!
– Ellen Butler

4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification Registration Form Available

ATTENTION: Those with 4-H Shooting Sports Responsibilities …

The registration form for the 2011 slate of 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification training opportunities is now available on the Colorado 4-H SS web site and Blog. Please pass this information on to those individuals or families who may be interested. Access the information as follows:

http://www.co4hshooting.org

or … http://co4hshooting.blogspot.com/

Or by following the direct link below:
http://www.co4hshooting.org/article12212005.html

If you have any questions on accessing the form, please let me know. If you have questions on the training schedule or locations, please contact Jim Hamilton jim.hamilton@colostate.edu or Rick Romanin rlromanin@netzero.net

- Perry Brewer

2011 YHEC and 4-H Shooting Sports Hunting/Outdoor Skills Challenge Contest Information

ATTENTION: Those with 4-H Shooting Sports responsibilities …

Please pass the information below on to those individuals and families who may be interested. If you have questions on the event or have problems with the documents, please let me know!

Information for the 2011 YHEC and 4-H Hunting/Outdoor Skills Challenge Event contest is now available. The event will be held on May 7 – 8, 2011 at the Flagler Lake Wildlife Area at Flagler, Colorado. The YHEC portion of the challenge event will be the Colorado state qualifier for the National YHEC Challenge to be held in the summer. New this year is the addition of the 4-H Shooting Sports Hunting/Outdoor Skills contest. This contest will be the qualifying event for participating senior 4-H contestants for the 4-H National Invitational Shoot to be held this summer in Texas.

Use the link below to access the detailed contest information and registration materials.
http://www.co4hshooting.org/shooting_opportunities.html

Links to the information is also available on the Colorado 4-H Shooting Sports Blog.
http://co4hshooting.blogspot.com/

Thank you for your time! - Perry Brewer

International 4-H Update – IFYE Reporting

Participants in the International Four-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) enhance the 4-H program through educational international, cross-cultural experiences that enable young people to improve their leadership and communication skills, while increasing their international awareness and understanding.

2010 IFYE Representatives Kelly Moyer (Rio Blanco County to Germany) and Shane Sheridan  (Elbert County to Austria/Switzerland) are available to share their international experiences through PowerPoint presentations at schools (language, history, geography classes, general assemblies), service organizations, churches, 4-H clubs, etc., starting mid-January through April 2011.

Kelly (22 years) is the daughter of Gary and Betty Lou Moyer of Meeker, Colorado.  Kelly  graduated from Colorado State University in May 2010 with a B.S. in Agricultural Business and a B.A. in Communication Studies.   She is a 9-year Colorado 4-H member.

Shane Sheridan  (29 years) is the son of Tim and Mary Ann Sheridan of Simla, Colorado.  Shane graduated from Colorado State University in May/December 2005 with a B.A. in Technical Journalism and a B.A. in Performing Arts.  He is an 11-year Colorado 4-H member and a 10-year Collegiate 4-H member.

Please contact Courtney Loflin at the State 4-H office to schedule Kelly or Shane.
Phone:  970-491-2711
E-mail:  Courtney.Loflin@Colostate.Edu

- Ellen Butler

Tony Grampsas Youth Services Request for Applications

The Request for Applications (RFA) for the Tony Grampsas Youth Services (TGYS) Program has been released.  Deadline for submission is 3:00 p.m. on January 31, 2011.  The RFA  can be found at www.tgys.org, along with the required attachments.  Any questions regarding this RFA should be submitted, by email, to Alan Frosh at alan.frosh@state.co.us by January 21, 2011.  All questions and responses will be posted on www.tgys.org by Friday of the week the question is submitted.

The Tony Grampsas Youth Services Program was established in 1994 to provide state funding for effective, community-based programs that target children, youth and their families with programs and services that prevent youth crime and violence and child abuse and neglect. TGYS has traditionally funded grants ranging from $15,000 to $60,000 per agency.  The TGYS Program has a statewide focus, and, typically, qualified organizations from a vast majority of Colorado counties receive TGYS funding.

The framework of this RFA is based upon the Uniform Minimum Standards (UMS).  The UMS are a set of principles that guide the development, implementation and evaluation of prevention and intervention programs and services for children and youth.  Principally, the TGYS Program expects each applicant to critically assess its target population and the problems/needs of this population based on current data (individual-, community-, or district-level data).  The applicant should then determine which factors contribute to the problems/needs based on existing research. The strategies, services and activities of the program or programs for which TGYS funding is requested should be based on evidence that demonstrates an impact on the identified problems/needs by addressing the contributing factors. The goals and outcomes of the program or programs for which TGYS funding is requested should reflect the ultimate impact that the applicant intends to have on the problems/needs by working with the target population.

The RFP deadline is approaching quickly.  Please let me know if you are interested. - Willa Williams

Announcing 2011 MetLife Foundation Afterschool Grants

On behalf of 4-H National Headquarters and the collaboration between National 4-H Council and the MetLife Foundation we are pleased to release the RFP for the MetLife Foundation 4-H Afterschool Training Grants. To review the RFP, application requirements (under the Description component after the RFP) and apply for funding, please visit our online portal at http://grants.4-h.org/ and click Funding Opportunities.

All applications for funding from National 4-H Council MUST be submitted by 4-H/Extension professionals. Applications submitted by non-4-H/Extension employees will not be considered for funding.

Approval from State Program Leaders or Program Administrators must be received by the application deadline for any application submitted, per the emailed instructions the State Program Leader/Program Administrator will receive once an application is submitted.

Please note—the required number of after-school providers has changed from previous years (from 550 to 350) and applicants are now permitted to combine training in civic engagement and other content areas in order to train the minimum number of after-school providers.

Questions about these grants can be directed to Gregg Tabachow, at gtabachow@fourhcouncil.edu or 301-961-2869.

Application for 2011-12 National 4-H GIS/GPS Leadership Team

Attention 4-H GIS/GPS Friends:

We are pleased to announce the application for the 2011-2012 National 4-H GIS/GPS Leadership Team. State/LGU 4-H programs are invited to submit an application for a team of teen (age 14 or older) and adult GIS/GPS leaders for this national 4-H leadership opportunity to continue the forward movement of the 4-H community mapping.

Responsibilities, requirements and other details are included in the application http://www.colorado4h.org/blog/docs/2011/gglead11app.doc. Participation includes attendance at the 2011 ESRI International GIS Conference in San Diego in July. Teams are responsible for securing their own funding for this trip.

Application deadline is February 1, 2011. State 4-H Leader signature is required with the application. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. We look forward to another great national team in 2011-2012.

Please let me know if any youth are interested in this team! - Willa Williams

4-H Blog Post from Penny Noyce (Noyce Foundation)

Do the words “4-H” http://www.4-h.org/ conjure visions of kids with cows and baking contests? That was my vision five or six years ago, when the 4-H council began talking to the Noyce Foundation about their work in non-formal science education. It turns out that since the beginning, 4-H kids have been learning and sharing science, from animal science to food safety to the myriad projects they’re involved in today: rocketry, geocaching, robotics, hydroponic gardening, monitoring water quality https://site.4-h.org/nysd/, wind power http://online.4-hcurriculum.org/curriculum/wind/, and much more.

4-H is the largest youth organization in the country. They have an outreach agent in every county in the country, and each land grant university has a 4-H office that works on curriculum http://www.4-h.org/resource-library/curriculum/ coordination, and evaluation. Six million kids a year participate in 4-H clubs, camps, in-school and after-school programs. With a careful blend of youth development, mentoring, and content, 4-H prepares kids to be leaders in their communities. Longitudinal research http://www.4-h.org/about/youth-development-research/ confirms that the program increases positive outcomes for kids.

Now 4-H has taken on its Million Minds challenge. The goal is to get one million new kids involved in science programs, to engage them, improve their attitudes toward science and increase their knowledge, so that many more of them will choose science careers, from forestry to renewable energy to mechanical engineering.

At the national 4-H science leadership conference I just attended, I met state and county agents from all over the country working on curriculum, professional development plans for their volunteers, evaluation, and fund development. Asked to say a few words about why the Noyce Foundation supports 4-H science, I referred to five key strengths of 4-H: Their visionary and distributed leadership; their firm principles of positive youth development; their willingness to partner with other youth and science organizations; their unrivaled reach and scale; and the incredible dedication of their staff and volunteers.

There are a lot more 4-H graduates serving out there as leaders in our country than most of us realize. I just learned yesterday that Drew Faust, president of Harvard, raised large animals with 4-H as a girl. So to all of you involved in 4-H, now or in the past, I salute you. You do great work.
http://windowviewblog.blogspot.com/2010/12/4-h-science.html
- Willa L. Williams