Progress 09/01/16 to 08/31/21
Outputs
Target Audience:The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons at Land Grant Universities and military child and youth program staff members in Army Child and Youth Services, Air Force Child and Youth Programs, and Navy Child and Youth Programs were the target audience for professional development technical assistance. The Project also reached child and youth program coordinators working with Reserve Component child and youth programs. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons serve as a link between state Extension programs, military service branches in the state, and 4-H National Headquarters/National Institute of Food and Agriculture/USDA. Changes/Problems:COVID restrictions certainly negatively impacted efforts over the final performance period of this award. Despite the changes, the team was able to quickly collaborate and provide additional opportunities for PDTA and benefits for the Partnership that was not planned in the original Scope of Work for the award. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?4-H positive youth development training was offered to the military child and youth programs by Land Grant University Extension 4-H faculty based on the training needs of the programs. The training topics included the Essential Elements of 4-H, the Experiential Learning Model, conducting 4-H Club Meetings, and specific 4-H project curricula. Military child and youth Programs professionals work hand-in-hand with experienced 4-H Extension Educators who provide an array of diverse training topics, 4-H resources, curriculum, and technical support through the Land Grant University System. Webinars offered a variety of opportunities for staff to gain knowledge and skills in the areas of 4-H National Youth Science Day, STEM, Science, Robotics, Leadership, Public Speaking, Forensics, Financial Planning, Healthy Snacks, and Small Animals. Webinars are the primary connection to OCONUS sites. In addition to the work occurring in states by 4-H State Military Liaisons, the 4-H Military Partnership through CYFAR funds provided professional development and technical assistance for Extension 4-H professionals and military child and youth program staff. Currently, data on the number of professionals served through training is only collected from states that have received funding through the 4-H Military Partnerships Outreach and Support sub-awards, not from states without an active award. Through the entire period of performance on this award, over 10,000 4-H Extension and Military CYP/CYS professionals received hands-on or virtual training opportunities through project efforts including: 4-H Outreach and Support Projects offered by other military-based awards In addition to the CYFAR award, military partners provided funding for state-based Partnership projects, including camps, 4-H Clubs and activities, additional PDTA opportunities on installations, etc. 2017 4-H Military Partnership Meeting, San Antonio, TX This PDTA opportunity allowed over 100 4-H State Military Liaisons and Military Service partners to learn about reporting requirements for the Project, learn from professionals in the field of behavioral sciences, opportunities to enhance programs with outside funds, and participate in roundtable discussions with military partners. 2018 4-H Military Partnership Meeting, San Antonio, TX This PDTA opportunity allowed over 40 4-H State Military Liaisons and Military Service Providers a chance to come together learn. Topics included building effective partnerships and fostering relationships; recruiting volunteers for club activities; one-on-one discussions with military partners; an introduction to 40 Developmental Assets; Using 4-H On-line to Your Benefit; and skills-based learning opportunities. Conversations were also held to develop support for OCONUS installations. 2018 Military Work Group Strategic Planning Event, Kansas City, KS This PDTA opportunity allowed over 25 members of the 4-MHP Working Group and representatives from Military Partners to develop a strategic plan for future partnership efforts. Led by the Office of Educational Innovative and Evaluation from Kansas State University, participants developed vision and mission statements for the Project, set five critical goals for forwarding Project development, and developed committees to work on target areas to accomplish the identified goals. 2019 Connecting Military & 4-H Communities, multiple locations This PDTA opportunity was designed to enhance and support the collaborations of the 4-H Military Partnerships. Through a two-day face-to-face training, our training team of 4-H Military Specialists and KSU 4-H Military Partnerships staff worked with local 4-H staff & volunteers, installation staff, and guard and reserve employees. These sessions created awareness and understanding of both 4-H and military infrastructure & culture, formulated goals & solidify partnerships, and developed skills to lead 4-H community and project clubs in a variety of settings for over 200 participants. 2020 4-H Military Partners Conference, Virtual Since COVID restrictions curtailed plans for an in-person meeting, the 2020 4-H Military Partners Conference was an opportunity to provide even more 4-H Extension and Military CYP/CYS professionals with PDTA efforts. This three-day conference was structured to allow over 485 participants to participate in live events or review the recordings at a later date and time. Topics of presentations included Moving Change Forward in Challenging Times; 4-H Thriving Model; Connecting with Teens; Advancing Together: A Guided Discussion, Connecting Your Brand, Telling Our Story; and What's Your Right Next Step? 2020 National 4-H Volunteers Conference Due to COVID, this historic in-person event was held virtually. CYFAR funds were used to extend the opportunity to attend virtual training sessions to all 4-H State Military Liaisons and Military CYP/CYS professionals. Topics included Connecting Military Youth with 4-H Programming, Conducting Virtual Horse Judging & Hippology Contests, Moving from Hand-On to Virtual Using Google Platform, Inspringing Youth to Lead and Serve in a Virtual format, and many more. 2021 CYFAR Training Reimbursement Project, various opportunities COVID restrictions did not allow for us to spend down all planned funds for training opportunities. Since travel bans were in place for most LGUs and military partners, we created an opportunity for stakeholders to participate in other PDTA events not created by the Partnership. Twenty-nine 4-H Extension and Military CYS-CYP professionals took advantage of this training opportunity to attend virtual training sessions, including American Camp Association, Association for Experiential Education, NAE4-HYDP 2020 conference, National Extension Conference on Volunteerism, and Experiential Facilitation. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Each year, Project staff at Kansas State University developed annual reports on Project efforts. This report was shared with Extension 4-H Military Liaisons, 4-H National Headquarters at USDA, and all military partners from Army, Air Force, and Navy. The reports included snapshots of the number of youth involved in programming efforts, the number of military child and youth program staff who have received training, and some highlights of work accomplished in several states. In November 2018, we began the renovation of the Project's website. The website holds information about the grant program and the 4-H partnerships with Army Child and Youth Services, Air Force Child and Youth Programs, and Navy Child and Youth Programs. There are links to the available camps, links to resources, and contact information for 4-H programs in each state. We have worked to keep the website up-to-date with information that is beneficial to the Project. In 2019, NCSU was awarded the 4-HMP CYFAR award and took on the oversight and administration of PDTA efforts, including training events and website development. For the award's final year, KSU Project efforts focused on spending down available funds through the National 4-H Council Project branding effort and the CYFAR Training Reimbursement Project. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Frequent in-person, telephone, and virtual meetings with Project stakeholders provided the opportunity for LGU and military partners to gain a strong understanding of the needs of military-connected youth and families and target deliverables for the Project. Monthly Partnership Zoom video sessions provided open communication and information sharing with all attendees and allowed all stakeholders to come together to learn more about Project happenings. The standing agenda included discussing any old efforts, new initiatives, reports from the military, information sharing by LGUs, general announcements from the group, and aims the KSU team had planned. Most importantly, these discussions led the group to work on measures to fill any identified gaps in delivery aspects, which may have negatively impacted the Project's overall goals and objectives. The Project's babysitting curriculum, originally published in 2007, was revised and released in October 2020. This revision encouraged professionals from Army CYS and several land grant universities to work together to ensure the most up-to-date and research-based information was contained in the very popular curriculum "I have what it takes to be YOUR Teen Babysitter." The curriculum was made available for free download on the Project's website, and a printed copied was sent to each State 4-H Military Liaison. To encourage the continued development of Project efforts, the team at Kansas State University worked with National 4-H Council to develop a plan to expand the Project's reach and resources to serve military-connected youth and families better. In August 2021, National 4-H Council delivered a suite of resources, including a new logo, a branding guide, posters, postcards, PowerPoint and newsletter templates, and impact videos available to all partners for use beginning September 2021. NCSU led efforts to begin the revision of the 4-H 101 curriculum. Purdue University provided the technical expertise and support through Purdue Online to create the online component of 4-H 101. The work of the curriculum writing team continues as Purdue Online manages the project. Once implemented, the online component will include three modules with approximately 6-10 activities/lessons per module. Modules include 4-H as an organization, Positive Youth Development, and managing the 4-H Club or 4-H as a Club.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/19 to 08/31/20
Outputs
Target Audience:The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons at Land Grant Universities and military child and youth program staff members in Army Child and Youth Services, Air Force Child and Youth Programs, and Navy Child and Youth Programs are the target audience for professional development technical assistance. The Project also reaches child and youth program coordinators working with Reserve Component child and youth programs. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons serve as a link between state Extension programs, military service branches in the state, and 4-H National Headquarters/National Institute of Food and Agriculture/USDA. Changes/Problems:COVID-19 impacted several work plans. Please see the information included in accomplishments, training provided, and continued plans for more detail. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?4-H positive youth development training is offered to the military child and youth programs by Land Grant University Extension 4-H faculty based on the programs' training needs. The training topics have included the Essential Elements of 4-H, the Experiential Learning Model, 4-H Club Meetings, and 4-H project curriculum. Military child and youth Programs professionals work hand-in-hand with experienced 4-H Extension Educators who provide an array of diverse training topics, 4-H resources, and curriculum and technical support through the Land Grant University System. Webinars offered a variety of opportunities for staff to gain knowledge and skills in the areas of 4-H National Youth Science Day, STEM, Science, Robotics, Leadership, Public Speaking, Forensics, Financial Planning, Healthy Snacks, and Small Animals. Webinars are the primary connection to OCONUS sites. Through the 4-H Military Partnerships, professional development and technical assistance are provided for both Extension 4-H professionals and military child and youth program staff. Currently, data on the number of professionals served through training is only collected from states who have received funding through the 4-H Military Partnerships Outreach and Support sub-awards and not from states who do not have an active award. Through the 3rd quarter (October 1, 2019, to July 31, 2020), sub-awardee reports show that the Project assisted with providing hands-on or virtual training opportunities for over 920 Air Force CYP professionals. Annual reports, with the total number of staff and volunteers reached for the entire fiscal year, are due October 31, 2020. In addition to the work occurring in states by 4-H State Military Liaisons, the team at Kansas State University worked with North Carolina State University's team to offer an annual conference for all partners in spring 2020. The conference, initially planned for an in-person offering, was provided via a virtual platform due to COVID-19. This change allowed additional attendees so the PDTA efforts could reach a broader audience. The virtual platform for the conference allowed for over 600 Extension and military professionals to access webinars, recordings, and live events via Zoom. Over 425 of the 600 registrants attended a live session. A review of conference data shows 75% of attendees identified as military professionals with the highest attendance rates serving Army (27%) and Air Force (19%) youth. Forty-seven states, two US territories, and a host of countries (17 attendees serve OCONUS from Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium, and England, to name a few) were also able to join in on the training provided. Conference surveys showed overwhelming support and appreciation of the offered sessions, with the majority of those completing surveys indicating they took new information and ideas from the live sessions and recordings. Some work also continued with the Connecting Military & 4-H Communities training that began in FY19. Additional training was provided during FY20 for two states. In-person OCONUS training was planned for April 2020; however, the worldwide pandemic prevented movement on the efforts. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Project staff at Kansas State University developed an Annual report for FY2019 efforts. This report was shared with Extension 4-H Military Liaisons, 4-H National Headquarters at USDA, and all military partners from Army, Air Force, and Navy. The report included snapshots of the number of youth involved in programming efforts, the number of military child and youth program staff who have received training, and some highlights of work accomplished in several states. In November 2018, we began the renovation of the Project's website. The website holds information about the grant program as well as the 4-H partnerships with Army Child and Youth Services, Air Force Child and Youth Programs, and Navy Child and Youth Programs. There are links to the available camps, current, and past resources, and how to contact 4-H programs in each state - all of which are intended to share information about the Partnership with military-connected youth and families and professionals working with these audiences. We have worked to keep the website up-to-date with information that is beneficial to the Project, and we continue to build additional enhancements to the website that will be launched during FY2021. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?With COVID continuing to impact many of our Project partners' ability to provide in-person training and programming efforts, we have become creative in how we will continue to work towards meeting this award's goals. For Fiscal Year 2021, plans include continued collaboration with North Carolina State University as they take on the lead role of providing PDTA under the newer CYFAR award. The Kansas State University team will continue to work with National 4-H Council on the Rebranding effort; see through the Babysitting curriculum revision; and work to assist in covering costs associated with PDTA for Extension and military professionals to attend training that can help to develop and deliver 4-H positive youth development programs that equip military-connected youth with life skills to lead positive, productive, and contributing lives. The PDTA efforts include a Request for Reimbursement Process that will allow for Extension and military professionals to attend both in-person (if available) and virtual sessions focused on helping the Project meet its mission of military readiness through 4-H positive youth development for youth, families, and communities. Additionally, work will continue on the revisions of 4-H 101 via the military workgroup, which will be spearheaded by NCSU.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
In-person, telephone, and virtual meetings with military partners provide the opportunity for LGU partners and others to gain a strong understanding of the needs of military-connected youth and families. These communication efforts included a compilation of ideas for data elements needed for evaluative purposes and information sharing. Most importantly, these discussions have led the group to work on measures to fill any identified gaps in delivery aspects, which may negatively impact the achievement of the Project's overall goals and objectives. Zoom video sessions allow all partners to come together to learn more about Project happenings every month. The standing agenda includes discussing any old efforts, new initiatives, reports from the military, general announcements from the group, and aims the KSU team has planned. This discussion platform provides open communication and information sharing with all attendees. KSU staff send a link to the recorded Zoom session so that individuals who were unable to join may remain up-to-date in what was discussed/shared. To encourage the continued development of Project efforts, the team at Kansas State University worked with National 4-H Council to develop a plan to expand the Project's reach and resources to serve military-connected youth and families better. However, due to COVID, the original plan was a bit derailed during spring 2020. With more information available to ensure the safety of all involved, we have since gotten back on track for a projected completion period of spring 2021. The objectives for this work include rebranding opportunities for the Project (updated logo, a common message/format for visuals), developing effective storytelling for the Project, and training and technical assistance for Extension and military CYP professionals. The Project's babysitting curriculum, originally published in 2007, has been revised with an anticipated release in October 2020. This revision encouraged professionals from Army CYS and several land grant universities to work together to ensure the most up-to-date and research-based information is contained in the very popular curriculum "I have what it takes to be YOUR Teen Babysitter." Once finalized, the curriculum will be made available for free download on the Project's website.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/18 to 08/31/19
Outputs
Target Audience:The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons at Land Grant Universities and military child and youth program staff members in Army Child and Youth Services, Air Force Child and Youth Programs, and Navy Child and Youth Programs are the target audience for professional development and technical assistance. The project also reaches child and youth program coordinators working with Reserve Component child and youth programs. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons serve as a link between state Extension programs, military service branches in the state, and 4-H National Headquarters/National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ USDA. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?4-H positive youth development training is offered to the military child and youth programs by Land Grant University Extension 4-H faculty based on the training needs of the programs. The training topics have included the Essential Elements of 4-H, the Experiential Learning Model, conducting 4-H Club Meetings, and specific 4-H project curriculum. Military Child and Youth Programs professionals work hand-in-hand with experienced 4-H Extension Educators who provide an array of diverse training topics, 4-H resources, and curriculum as well as technical support through the Land Grant University System. Webinars offered a variety of opportunities for staff to gain knowledge and skills in the areas of 4-H National Youth Science Day, STEM, Science, Robotics, Leadership, Public Speaking, Forensics, Financial Planning, Healthy Snacks, and Small Animals. Webinars are the primary connection to OCONUS sites. From October 1, 2018, through March 30, 2019, the Project has assisted with providing hands-on or virtual training opportunities for 216 CYP Directors and Trainers, 1,206 CYP front-line staff, 238 adult volunteers, and 249 teen volunteers "paying it back" through working with younger youth and community projects. Annual reports, with the total number of staff/volunteers, reached for the entire fiscal year, are due October 31, 2019. So far in FY19, the Connecting Military & 4-H Communities training has been offered in four locations with over 84 participants attending. Training participants have been the right mix of Extension professionals/volunteers (49%) and military child and youth service professionals (51%). Evaluations of the training indicate that over 80% of participants agreed that the training met the intended goals and objectives, and 100% reporting they gained new ideas from the presentations. 100% of respondents shared they would recommend the training to others. In a 60-day follow up survey, participants shared the following feedback: Q: How have you used this training to gain a better understanding of military culture? A: "I went into this training with absolutely no knowledge of military life. I left with enough understanding to better work with my 4-H military club." Q: How has your program changed to meet the needs of military-connected youth on installations, as well as our geographically dispersed youth? A: "I have included all the youth engaged in the School-age Child Care program at the Subase Youth Center to my county 4-H newsletter." Q: How has the partnership between the military installations and the local 4-H Extension changed? A: "Better understanding of what is needed to accomplish the engagement from both sides," and "We have expanded our projects in getting more youth and families involved." Q: Since the Connecting Military & 4-H Communities training, what would you say has been the biggest highlight or accomplishment for your program as a result of the training? A: "Better understanding of the programs and knowledge of resources out there to provide more for the youth" and "Our Associate Dean came to the training and has given us permission to apply for a 2020 Military Partnership Grant. This support of our military programs at our Universities Administrative level is very important to our 4-H Military Partnership." How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Project staff at Kansas State University developed a Mid-Year Progress report regarding the efforts for the first half of the fiscal year. This report was shared with Extension 4-H Military Liaisons, 4-H National Headquarters at USDA, and all Military Partners from Army, Air Force, and Navy. The report included snapshots of the number of youth involved in programming efforts, the number of military Child and Youth Program staff who have received training, the top four focus areas on installations and for geographically dispersed youth, and the most reported challenges for the same audiences. The Mid-Year Progress Report also included statements of support from youth, parents, and CYS/CYP staff. In November 2018, we began the renovation of the Project's website. The website holds information about the grant program as well as the 4-H partnerships with Army Child and Youth Services, Air Force Child and Youth Programs, and Navy Child and Youth Programs. There are links to the available camps, links to current and past resources, and links on how to contact 4-H programs in each state - all which are intended to share information about the Partnership with military-connected youth and families and professionals working with these audiences. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The 4-H Military Partnerships Annual Meeting will return for the next reporting year. The Annual Meeting allows for continued training and presentations for both Extension and military professionals, specific to the goal of involving military-connected youth with 4-H opportunities. Site visits, based upon lessons we have learned from the Connecting Military & 4-H Communities training, will be completed in 6 locations next year. The visit will include one-on-one time between KSU staff and the state's 4-H Military Liaison for additional information/training. Finally, work is underway to develop an evaluation training project that can be used by all LGU and military partners to understand better-evaluating practices and norms.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
A Strategic Planning Event was held in January 2019. Through this event, members of the MWG, military partners and the KSU Project team worked together to establish a vision and mission for the Partnership, as well as set five goals/priorities for work over the next 24-36 months. From these goals, the group designed five committees that members of the MWG felt could help move the project forward, including the Youth Integration Committee, the Professional Development Committee, the Marketing Committee, the Collaborations Committee, and the Data Committee. Zoom video sessions are held with the MWG and military partners every month to ensure identified action steps remain on target for completion. KSU staff send minutes following the meeting so that individuals who were unable to join may stay up-to-date on what was discussed/shared during the Zoom session. The Professional Development (PD) Committee recently released a survey for both military and Extension partners to gain insight into the needs of partners as it relates to PD. This committee will be convening in-person in August 2019 to finalize plans for the next 12-36 months for the dissemination and presentation of training materials. The Integrating Youth Committee has constructed and sent out surveys to gather more information and feedback as they continue to work on completing their action steps from the FY19 Strategic Plan. The Collaboration Committee has worked to share information on the Partnership with the Office of Military Family Readiness Policy, Office of the Secretary of Defense and with representatives of National 4-H Council. The committee is currently compiling a listing of all collaborations working within the Partnership. The Data Committee is beginning to plan for a return on investment study for the Project. In-person, telephone, and virtual meetings with military partners provide the opportunity for LGU partners and others to gain a strong understanding of the needs of military-connected youth and families. Products of these communication efforts include mid-year progress reports, a compilation of ideas for data elements needed for evaluative purposes, and information sharing. Most importantly, these discussions have led the group to work on efforts to fill any identified gaps in delivery aspects, which may negatively impact the achievement of the overall goals and objectives of the Project. Zoom video sessions allow all partners to come together to learn more about Project happenings every month. The standing agenda includes discussion on any old efforts, any new initiatives, reports from the military, general announcements from the group, and aims the KSU team has planned. This discussion platform provides open communication and information sharing with all attendees. KSU staff send minutes following the meeting so that individuals who were unable to join may remain up-to-date in what was discussed/shared during the Zoom session. We began the revision of the 4-H Military Partnerships' website in November 2018. The site has been redesigned to allow for ease in accessing information available on the website for professionals working with military-connected youth. There are also several resources for military youth and their families included on the site. For example, the Events tab displays the available camp opportunities for youth, the Resources tab includes current and past curriculums designed by the Partnership that can be downloaded for all audiences, and the Connect tab provides contact information for all LGU partners, which can be narrowed down by state. Upcoming plans for the website include adding a calendar of events for activities occurring throughout partner states directly related to military-connected youth, and an "In the Spotlight" area where we will share and celebrate the great work accomplished by partnering states. A KSU student employee majoring in Website Design completed the development of the website, and KSU student employees will continue to assist with any enhancements to the site through the next three years. The Project team solicits feedback from stakeholders for additional ideas we can add to ensure there is a centralized location for information related to project efforts. This rebuild will continue through FY20, and staff will continue to make updates throughout the life of the Partnership as deemed necessary. Through a collaborative approach with KSU staff, the Air Force 4-H Youth Development Specialists, and the Navy 4-H Youth Development Specialist developed the Connecting Military & 4-H Communities training. See more information under "Training Provided."
Publications
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Progress 09/01/17 to 08/31/18
Outputs
Target Audience:The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons at Land Grant Universities and military child and youth program staff members in Army Child, Youth and School Services, Air Force Child and Youth Programs, and Navy Child and Youth Programs are the target audience for professional development and technical assistance. The project also reaches child and youth program coordinators working with Reserve Component child and youth programs. The ultimate audience is children and youth of military services members including Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve. Military connected youth are at risk from a variety of factors that include frequent relocation, repeated and lengthy deployment of immediate family members, issues associated with reunion and reintegration, single parent households, lower income, and family members returning home wounded or not at all. 4-H provides consistency and predictability in their lives and quality programming at a time when reliability is needed. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons serve as a link between state Extension programs, military service branches in the state, and 4-H National Headquarters/National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ USDA. Changes/Problems:The prior Project Director, Marlene VerBrugge retired in January 2018. A new Project Director, Meredith Butler, began leadership of the Partnerships in January 2018. The transition to Ms. Butler's leadership will continue over the course of the next fiscal year. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Extension 4-H Military Liaisons and state and county 4-H staff provide professional development trainings, along with 4-H curriculum, helping military child and youth program staff deliver skill building experiences (learn-by-doing) to military connected youth. More than 5,000 military personnel participated in professional development opportunities. Training was provided through face-to-face opportunities and distance education. Training topics include Essential Elements of 4-H, Experiential Learning Model, Conducting 4-H Club Meetings, and specific 4-H project curriculum. Through the delivery of quality positive youth development programs, 4-H helped military youth develop confidence and become capable and caring youth with life skills to thrive in today's world. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?An annual report for 2017 was created about the many components of the 4-H Military Partnerships. The report showcases the impact of various state programs on the lives of military connected youth. The report was disseminated at the 2018 4-H Military Annual meeting and will be made available for other at the NAE4-HA annual conference. Copies are provided to USDA and our Military Partners, as well as the Extension 4-H Military Liaisons. The URL for the 4-H Military Partnerships website was disseminated to stakeholders, military partners, and Extension 4-H Military Liaisons. The website contains information pertinent to military youth and families, military and Extension staff, and Extension 4-H Military Liaisons. An annual report for 2018 will be prepared after final state reports are in after October 31, 2018. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
A 4-H Military Partnership Meeting was held in April bringing together 4-H Military liaisons, Military Service members as well as other stakeholders. Before the meeting, Military Headquarters staff and Extension 4-H Military Liaisons worked collaboratively to identify professional development needs for both Extension and military service staff. The team consisted of members from Military Work Group, staff from KSU, and representatives from the Air Force, Army, Navy, Army Reserves and Army National Guard. This team approach resulted in stronger communication across both Extension and military services and enhanced the depth and breadth of programming during the meeting. The program planned by the team included: workshops on building partnerships and working with volunteers; an interactive effort for groups to create partnership enhancement tools; an experiential learning activity session to share content from across the states; a military meet and greet session where Liaisons could visit one-on-one or in groups with military partners about specific questions or needs they were having within their states; and a discussion session for military service headquarters and Extension staff to discuss needs, priorities and questions. Evaluations from the meeting revealed 88.89% of responding attendees felt the meeting satisfied their expectations and 88.89% indicated that they apply new skills to their position within the Partnership. Extension 4-H Military Liaisons have noted since the meeting that the group activity all attendees participated in was useful and easily reliable for many of their local needs. The Annual Meeting added a post-meeting session for new 4-H military liaisons to support their understanding and efforts as a key point of contact for their states. The four-hour introduction session provided content developed by other 4-H Liaisons and was followed by individual mentoring calls to each new liaison by other the liaisons. As a result, liaisons are more prepared to meet the needs of their communities and have an experienced connection within Extension to seek information and assistance. A state that previously had not sought funding through the partnership has indicated an interest in joining the partnership. Another critical component at the 2018 4-H Military Partnership Meeting included a session with all Military Partners meeting together to discuss strengths and challenges for the partnership. From the meeting, services and Extension noted that a clearer understanding of missions and vision for the project might be needed. Additionally, a team was identified to develop and pilot an enrollment and activity reporting process to serve both entities needs better. Finally, members noted that in meeting as a unified body, the group was better able to move forward and work together for additional projects in the partnership. In addition to the 4-H Military Partnership meeting, other strategies have been used to meet the objectives and goals of the funding. Kansas State University staff developed a plan which included several opportunities to gather information from Military (Army, Navy, Air Force, and National Guard) CYP Headquarters, and Extension 4-H Military Liaisons. KSU staff met in person with Air Force Headquarters staff and via conference call with Navy and the Army to discuss program focus areas. These meetings resulted in a stronger understanding of services needs for both installation and geographically dispersed audiences and impacted future goals as well as the delivery of programs in this year's funding cycle. Since these meetings, additional discussions have been held to determine continued moving forward with planning efforts in regards to military needs. Each military branch has noted that installations are unique and local Extension 4-H staff should meet with the Director, Trainer, and 4-H CYP Lead to identify professional development training needs and youth program outcomes. In July 2018, the Project Director began hosting conference calls with each of the Extension Military Liaisons. This effort has offered an opportunity for a better understanding of the unique needs in each of the states. Once all calls have been completed, the information gathered during the phone calls will be incorporated into the program for strategic planning, training needs, and resource sharing. The Project Director and Project Coordinator attended an Army Training session with Army CYS Directors to deliver a skill-a-thons showcase of 4-H curricula. The program included participant engagement in portions of the curricula to model experiential learning. As a result, CYS directors have materials available to support learning and engagement with 4-H materials in their various garrisons. Considering this project reaches around the world, virtual training is key to delivering positive youth development training. OCONUS liaisons in Extension have quarterly calls with installations to assure current topic, and best delivery modes are applied. In sharing their work, the project has maximized efforts and extend the reach of training and information offered to OCONUS sites. Additionally, these efforts have allowed for changes to meet challenges within the installations. For example, as the services noted that computer security is tight and some platforms are difficult to access, Extension liaisons are encouraged to post training tools on YouTube, as it is generally accessible at most CYP sites. This exemplifies the impact of building communication between Extension and Services to serve military-connected youth. Overall, professional Development efforts through CYFAR funding enabled Extension to support the partnership with 221,861 personnel hours to enhance staff training and expand youth engagement in 4-H Clubs and other 4-H educational programs. With 4-H's strong community base, volunteers provided their time and talents to make a difference with 6,643 adult volunteers donating over 59,201 hours valued at over $1.4 million.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/16 to 08/31/17
Outputs
Target Audience:The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons at Land Grant Universities and military child and youth program staff members in Army Child, Youth and School Services, Air Force Child and Youth Programs, and Navy Child and Youth Programs are the target audience for professional development and technical assistance. The project also reaches child and youth program coordinators working with Reserve Component child and youth programs. The ultimate audience is children and youth of military services members including Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve. Military connected youth are at risk from a variety of factors that include frequent relocation, repeated and lengthy deployment of immediate family members, issues associated with reunion and reintegration, single parent households, lower income, and family members returning home wounded or not at all. 4-H provides consistency and predictability in their lives and quality programming at a time when reliability is needed. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons serve as a link between state Extension programs, military service branches in the state, and 4-H National Headquarters/National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ USDA. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Extension 4-H Military Liaisons and state and county 4-H staff provide professional development trainings, along with 4-H curriculum, helping military child and youth program staff deliver skill building experiences (learn-by-doing) to military connected youth. More than 5,000 military personnel participated in professional development opportunities. Training was provided through face-to-face opportunities and distance education. Training topics include Essential Elements of 4-H, Experiential Learning Model, Conducting 4-H Club Meetings, and specific 4-H project curriculum. Through the delivery of quality positive youth development programs, 4-H helped military youth develop confidence and become capable and caring youth with life skills to thrive in today's world. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?An annual report for 2015 was created about the many components of the 4-H Military Partnerships. The report showcases the impact of various state programs on the lives of military connected youth. The report is available on the 4-H Military Partnerships website. It was disseminated at the NAE4-HA annual conference and the 4-H Military Partnerships meeting. Copies are also sent to USDA and our Military Partners, as well as the Extension 4-H Military Liaisons. The URL for the 4-H Military Partnerships website was disseminated to stakeholders, military partners, and Extension 4-H Military Liaisons. The website contains information pertinent to military youth and families, military and Extension staff, and Extension 4-H Military Liaisons. An annual report for 2016 will be prepared after final state reports are in after October 31, 2017. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The goal of the CYFAR 4-H Military Partnership Professional Development and Technical Assistance Program is to provide professional development and technical assistance to Land-Grant Universities and Cooperative Extension Systems to develop and deliver 4-H positive youth development programs that equip military connected youth with life skills to lead positive, productive, and contributing lives. Objective 1: As a result of participating in professional development and technical assistance opportunities, Extension 4-H Military Liaisons and military child and youth programs staff will feel confident in 4-H subject area knowledge and practices. In order to understand the professional development needs of the audiences, three opportunities were identified for gathering information - Military Partner visits, 4-H Military Partnership meeting, and Military Work Group conference calls. A key component at the 4-H Military Partnership Meeting included identifying professional development needs of Extension 4-H Military Liaisons, local Extension staff, and Military Child and Youth Program (CYP) staff. Military Headquarters staff and Extension 4-H Military Liaisons worked together identifying the following needs: enhance communication at the national level between 4-H and Military Child and Youth Program staff to better equip local programs to address youth/staff needs by developing: 1) roles and expectations of local CYP and 4-H staff in areas of professional development and 4-H Club expectations; 2) understanding teen programs and how 4-H can best engage teens in developing life skills; 3) best practices in engaging guard, and reserve youth and families in off installation 4-H and Extension programs. Another identified need was understanding each other's culture including access to installation/local 4-H clubs, and chain of command. Preparing 4-H Military Partnership grant proposal applications and follow-up reports was another identified need. Kansas State University staff development plan included several opportunities to gather information from Military (Army, Navy, Air Force, and National Guard) CYP Headquarters, and Extension 4-H Military Liaisons. VerBrugge and Fink met with each Military branch individually before the Partnership Meeting discussing program focus areas, professional development needs, and the best avenues to deliver training. Each military branch noted that installations are unique and local Extension 4-H staff should meet with the Director, Trainer, and/or 4-H CYP Lead to identify professional development training needs and youth program outcomes. Military noted they are moving toward a unified online training. Once the online training is in place, KSU will work with Extension 4-H Military Liaisons to identify key areas in which local Extension staff can bring this training to a positive youth development hands-on experience to enhance youth ability to develop life skills at Military Child and Youth Centers. Discussions also included the use of Common Measures to help identify the impact of the program. Considering this project reaches around the world, virtual training is key to delivering positive youth development training. OCONUS states have quarterly calls with Military CYP Headquarters and KSU staff to assure current topic and best delivery modes are applied. All Military branches are promoting National 4-H Council training webinars supporting newly developed curriculum. Military has noted that computer security is tight. To address staff and older youth needs, states have been encouraged to post trainings on YouTube, as it is generally accessible at most CYP sites. Each issue of the 4-H Military Partnership e-newsletter highlighted webinars/online trainings that support this work. The Military Family Network provided excellent webinars that supported military youth work. Topics included: unique challenges for children in military, what children learn through play, working with multiple generations, transitioning of special needs children, and identifying opportunities to enhancing child learning. Liaisons were encouraged to review the updated REACH Military website, and participate in Common Measures webinars. A presentation by Dr. Mary Arnold was postponed due to a delay in research. States encourage CYP staff to participate in 4-H 101 online training. All Navy Child and Youth Program (CYP) staff completed 4-H 101 On-line Training before attending the 4-H Military Partnership Meeting. The 4-H Military Partnership Meeting provided an opportunity for Extension 4-H Military Liaisons, Army, Air Force, and Navy Headquarters staff, and local CYP staff to convene to develop a deeper understand of 4-H Military Partnership goals and program outcomes. Participants engaged in sessions on new youth development curriculum and learning about new opportunities to engage youth in hands-on learning. Extension 4-H Military Liaisons engaged in one-on-one conversations with CYP staff developing a greater understanding of each other's needs. Extension 4-H Military Liaisons submitted questions that Military partners addressed to increase understanding of goals to develop best practices. Army, Navy, and Air Force brought 95 Child and Youth Staff to the 4-H Military Partnership meeting. They had the opportunity to develop a better understanding of the partnership as well as how it can support their educational programs. Extension 4-H Military Liaisons were able to meet directly with CYP staff developing a relationship and a local plan of action to further program outcomes. The overall evaluation from the 4-H Military Partnerships Meeting revealed that participants were engaged and gained valuable professional development information around curriculum, positive hands-on youth development, and STEM activities. Extension 4-H Military Liaisons have noted since the meeting that this relationship has opened the door to staff training and new youth programming. Military funding enabled Extension to support the partnership with 27,456 personnel hours to enhance staff training and expand youth engagement in 4-H Clubs and other 4-H educational programs. 4-H through its state and local staffing, have embraced this partnership with Extension staff contributing over 52,000 hours. With 4-H's strong community base, volunteers provided their time and talents to make a difference with 6,081 adult 4-H volunteers donating 102,721 hours valued at over 2 million dollars.
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