Our primary objectives in the Share-the-Fun program are to encourage 4-H members to: 1) discover and develop their talents and 2) to develop confidence in self and performing before others. This score sheet is designed to have judges evaluate 4-H members’ performances, give members feedback to assist with their continuous development, and assist in the selection of acts that can be used in an exciting, entertaining variety show.

Public Speaking challenges the contestants to develop and deliver a message that informs, influences or entertains an intended audience. They will plan and deliver a speech with an effective beginning, middle and conclusion. The audience, appropriate topic, purpose, research of supporting materials, and appropriate methods of delivery will be considered.

The Radio and Public Address contests provide 4-H youth with an opportunity to express themselves clearly,organize their ideas and have confidence. By competing in this contest, youth learn valuable life skills in effective communication that they will use throughout their lifetime.

The Science Fair Presentation& Display Contest provides youth with the opportunity to communicate scientific experiment by using the scientific method.

Extemporaneous Speaking challenges contestants to think quickly and prepare a speech on an assigned topic with little preparation. Participants will draw three possible topics, choose one, prepare for 15-30 minutes, and then deliver a 2-5 minute speech response.

Fashion Revue is a contest that aims to increase youths’ knowledge of consumerism, textiles, and garment constructionwhile providing opportunities to express fashion trends and present themselves in an appropriate manner. Categories exist for purchased and constructed garments.

During the summer months of 2017, a team of Virginia 4-H extension agents and a 4-H extension specialist surveyed currently active teens and their parents/guardians to gather insight on how they became involved in 4-H, what keeps them engaged in the program, what they have learned as a result of their participation, how they are utilizing what they have learned, and their familiarity with the variety of opportunities available to teen 4-H members. As a result, 233 teens and 388 parents/guardians responded to the survey, representing all four districts and 71 of our 106 counties and cities in Virginia. The age range of teen respondents was 13-19 years old. This publication highlights the key findings from the study.

During the summer months of 2017, a team of Virginia 4-H Extension Agents and a 4-H Extension Specialist surveyed currently active teens and their parents/guardians to gather insight on how they became involved in 4-H, what keeps them engaged in the program, what they have learned as a result of their participation, how they are utilizing what they have learned, and their familiarity with the variety of opportunities available to teen 4-H members. As a result, 233 teens and 388 parents/guardians responded to the survey, representing all four districts and 71 of our 106 counties and cities in Virginia. The age range of teen respondents was 13-19 years old. This publication highlights the key findings from the study.

This video is for family members who are looking to gain more ideas to enjoy time together, especially with varying age groups and interests.

In light of elevated conversations around race and racism, this session shares an avenue for adults to provide space for youth to voice their thoughts, concerns and ideas in a brave manner that seeks to bridge, and not divide.

The presenters and panelists discuss ways to reach, serve and support youth from all racial and ethnic backgrounds in programming efforts.

A panel of youth share their ideas and perspectives on the current conversations about race and racial justice, including the role of youth in supporting community healing. Current programming examples in Virginia and North Carolina that amplify youth voice using various art forms and digital media are also shared.

There's been a lot of discussion lately about the connections between social media use and mental health among both teens and adults. In fact, the US Surgeon General issued a report about the issue. https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/sg-youth-mental-health-social-media-advisory.pdf In this session, we delve into the pros, cons, and recommendations for using social media in ways that are helpful and strategies to avoid harmful practices.

Virginia Cooperative Extension takes pride in the premise that vital programming is based on the issues, problems, and needs of the people. A thorough analysis of the situation provides context for understanding and addressing these problems. Each local office updates their situation analysis every 4-5 years.

Onboarding new agent hires is a collaborative effort at the state, district, and local levels. Unit Coordinators (UCs) play a vital role in this process. It is important that UCs know all aspects of the VCE Onboarding process as they begin planning for a new hire in their unit office.

A career in Extension offers a diverse and rewarding opportunity to make a difference in your community. This publication is based on a webinar with experienced Extension professionals who shared insights, tips, and encouragement for building a successful career in Extension. The information below is derived from that conversation and is not intended to be comprehensive, but rather a starting point for defining your strategies for success as you embark on your career. Finding your place in the diverse world of Extension takes time, relationships, conversations, and self-honesty. You have a network of colleagues cheering for your success!

Extension offers many paths to leadership at the district and state level. This publication is based on an online seminar with experienced Extension professionals sharing their insights, tips, and experiences applying and interviewing for various district and state roles. The information below is derived from that conversation and is intended to offer strategies and advice for district and state level applications and interviews.