Progress 09/01/18 to 08/31/23
Outputs
Target Audience: Children of military service members, including Active Duty and National Guard and Reserve, are the primary audience for the 4-H Military Partnerships Project. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons are the target audience for the Request for Applications for the 4-H Military Partnerships Outreach and Support grants. The target audience for Army Camps is children of deployed or wounded soldiers. The target audience for the Air Force/4-H Youth Camp program is children of Air Force service members - both Active Duty and Guard and Reserve. Changes/Problems:As with all other projects and organizations, the global pandemic took a toll on FY20 plans for many states. From canceled trainings, conferences, camps, and meetings to discovering ways to take the historic in-person approach of 4-H experiences virtually, many states have shared valuable resources and expertise that can be replicated throughout project efforts. Several states struggled to collect data and reach the target audience during the pandemic, resulting in an excess of funding not being utilized. For the last year of performance, no salaries were taken from the award; therefore, FTE equivalence is not included in this report. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Virtual and in-person professional development was offered to military child and youth programs by Land Grant University Extension 4-H faculty based on the training needs of the programs. Training events offered military child and youth professionals various opportunities to gain knowledge and skills, including the Essential Elements of 4-H, the Experiential Learning Model, conducting 4-H Club Meetings, and 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. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The Project has shared annual reports with all stakeholders in both print and electronic formats. All electronic-based reports have been placed on the project website, https://4-hmilitarypartnerships.org/, for any interested parties to access. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Over the life of the 4-H Military Partnership Outreach and Support Project, Kansas State University (K-State) awarded 69 sub-awards for just over $1.9 million to Land-grant Universities to provide 4-H experiences in citizenship, healthy living, and science to military youth on and off military installations through the 4-H Military Partnership Grant program. Extension 4-H Military Liaisons led this project on behalf of the 4-H Youth Development departments in each state. Liaisons serve as a link between the state extension programs, military service branches, and 4-H National Headquarters located within USDA/NIFA. They coordinate, network, and facilitate programs and resources, working with various partners at the university level, military partners, and partners across their states to support military children, youth, and family programming. Throughout the life of the award, project partners reached over 122,800 military-connected youth and over 5,700 youth program professionals through 4-H clubs, experiences, opportunities, and professional development. This targeted audience increased their knowledge, experience, and interaction with positive youth development activities, lessons, and learning - resulting in allowing military service members to remain mission-ready, knowing their children were involved with structured and research-backed programming. It is important to note that the focus of data collection changed over the life of the award. Originally, states were asked to report on all military-connected youth involved with 4-H programming on installations rather than those reached specifically through Project funds. In 2021, military partners and K-State project staff discussed the importance of collecting data specific to the funding made available for the project. Therefore, the data collected over the life of the award is not fully reliable for evaluating the return on investment of project dollars and likely reflects youth and professionals counted more than once. K-Stare awarded nine LGUs with sub-awards totaling nearly $800,000 to provide 4-H Camps targeted for youth of Wounded Warriors or deployed soldiers. All Wounded Warrior Camps were required to operate five nights or longer, while Deployment Camps were required to operate three nights or longer. All camps were required to be residential. Wounded Warrior Camps were open to youth 12-18 years of age, while Deployment Camps extended the age range to 6-18 years of age. More than 400 military-connected youth attended an Army CYS 4-H Camp. Five Wounded Warrior Camps were held in 2021 and six in 2022. Four Deployment Camps were held in 2021 and six in 2022. K-State awarded funds to two states initially; however, one could not carry out its proposed Deployment Camp due to recruitment challenges, and another could not carry out its proposed Wounded Warrior or Deployment Camps due to staffing and turnover. Pandemic-related restrictions and recruitment challenges stemming from the pandemic necessitated four states to receive no-cost time extensions, allowing them to split their camps between FY2021 and FY2022 or to conduct an additional camp with the awarded funding. Additionally, one state was approved to host a three-day weekend retreat in FY2022 for the youth who attended the FY2021 Wounded Warrior and Deployment camps. Due to challenges with COVID restrictions, turnover, and recruitment efforts, LGUs did not fully expend all awarded dollars. States that received awards were required to participate in the 40 Developmental Assets and Developmental Relationships training presented by the Search Institute. Sub-awardees were also required to conduct the Developmental Asset Profile survey developed by the Search Institute. The Search Institute processed this data and provided K-State with a comprehensive report in 2021 and an aggregate of 2021 and 2022 data in 2022. Condensed briefs of these reports were provided to Army CYS. Carryover funds were used to support additional 4-HMPOS efforts in states during the final year of the award and additional efforts requested by Army CYS (and approved by USDA), including: Development of the Army CYS 4-H Youth Development Specialist position Army CYS 4-H 101 Workshops and training resources Sub-award to the University of Minnesota for professional development and technical assistance in Building Development Relationships with Youth (Search Institute) and Positive Youth Development courses Suicidal Ideation Project for Army CYS. Army 4-H Curriculum purchase Virtual College & Career Fair 2023 Army CYS Youth Leadership Forum All additional deliverables were completed as requested. In addition to the sub-awards for state projects, K-State issued 20 sub-awards to LGUs, totaling over $267,000, to design and implement camps targeted specifically to DAF-connected youth. Due to the funds made possible through DAF dollars aimed at this deliverable, more than 750 DAF-connected youth attended a DAF 4-H Camp during the project period. With savings from camps and other deliverables in the award, DAF requested an additional project deliverable in 2021. Through the collaboration with professionals at the Office of Educational Innovation and Evaluation (OEIE) at Kansas State University, the Project began a study on staff retention for the Department of the Air Force. OEIE designed evaluation activities to gather data from CYP and FCC staff about employment with Air Fore CYP. Work has since halted due to the end of the performance period.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/22
Outputs
Target Audience:Children of military service members, including Active Duty, and National Guard and Reserve, are the primary audience for the 4-H Military Partnerships Project. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons are the target audience for the Request for Applications for the 4-H Military Partnerships Outreach and Support grants. The target audience for Army Camps is children of deployed or wounded soldiers. The target audience for the Air Force/4-H Youth Camp program is children of Air Force service members - both Active Duty and Guard and Reserve. Changes/Problems:Regional Training Events - Presented by A4-HYDS Work was not completed during FY22 on Regional Training Events due to travel restrictions for Army CYS. Plans to implement this goal are pending for FY23. Army Outreach and Support Sub-Awards Work was not completed during FY22 on Outreach and Support sub-awards to states due to Army CYS not establishing target deliverables. Plans to implement this goal are pending for FY23. Air Force 4-H youth Development Specialist Funding for the Air Force 4-H Youth Development Specialist has been exhausted from this award. Though work continued, it is reported in the 2022 Award Annual REEport. 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 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 and in-person events offered a variety of opportunities for staff to gain knowledge and skills in the areas of the 4-H National STEM Challenge and other STEM topics, Leadership, Public Speaking, Forensics, Financial Planning, Healthy Snacks, and Small Animals How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The Project electronically shared the 2021 Annual report with all State and Military stakeholders and USDA in April 2022. The report was also placed on the project website, https://4-hmilitarypartnerships.org/, for any interested parties to access. We will distribute the 2022 Annual report similarly in Spring 2023. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?To continue spending down DAF dollars available in the award, Kansas State University Project staff, in collaboration with DAF leaders, will continue efforts on the staff retention study through OEIE. Carryover funds from Army Camps will be awarded to LGUs for additional outreach projects to support Army-connected youth and professionals. Up to three regional training events will occur in FY23 for Army-selected Center Trainers or Center Coordinators. Project efforts will continue by utilizing funding available on multiple USDA awards simultaneously.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Sub-Awards The 4-H Military Partnership Project offered No Cost Time Extensions on two sub-awards for 4-H Camps designated for Department of the Air Force-connected youth in Georgia and New Mexico. The University of Georgia's Coastal Aventures DAF 4-H Camp, held in July 2022, built competencies of 19 DAF-connected participants in connection with other military teens, making positive choices related to self and the environment, and the awareness of self-responsibility for personal well-being, family, and community. Many stated they did new things (like dissecting a squid, holding a turtle, and exploring a marsh) during camp. Multiple youth talked about the importance of making and keeping friends and how camp will help them build their confidence going into the next school year. Many participants also explained how they were excited about science and learning more about the ocean once they got home. Multiple youth/families asked how they could return to Burton 4-H Center and/or get involved in 4-H programs. Based on parents' post-camp electronic survey responses, they believe their child(ren) is better at meeting new people, learning new things, taking care of themselves, making good decisions, and communicating with others from the camp. "Camp was new for me, but I quickly made good friends." - Youth Participant "This [camp] helped give my boys confidence in meeting new friends and staying overnight at new locations." - Parent of Youth Participant New Mexico State University offered 31 DAF-connected youth to learn more about being a leader through the Adventures in Leadership Camp in June 2022. Youth completed at least one 4-H project from start to finish while at the camp. They identified an increase in leadership skills after participating in the white water rafting activity. They were able to identify at least one stressor in their life and ways to overcome the stress. After attending the healthy living portion of the camp: 97% reported learning ways to be active 100% reported learning about healthy food choices 87% reported learning about risky behaviors 97% reported gaining a greater understanding of the 4-H Military Partnership by attending the camp. 100% of youth reported they learned a new skill in their project that they would be able to take home with them. Comments reveived from participants included: "Attending camp was a great way to add leadership skills and grow with my peers. I learned a lot about the 4-H Military Partnership and look forward to finding new ways to get involved." - Youth Participant "I got to de-stress and have fun. I left feeling more refreshed and ready for whatever life throws my way." - Youth Participant "The healthy living class opened my eyes to the unhealthy choices that I make." - Youth Participant "Attending camp allowed me to see more sides of 4-H and how 4-H works to bring in non-traditional members." - Youth Participant (Traditional 4-H member) Staff Retention Study During FY22, the Project began a study on staff retention by collaborating with professionals at the Office of Educational Innovation and Evaluation (OEIE) at Kansas State University. OEIE has designed evaluation activities to gather data from CYP and FCC staff related to the following questions: Why do people seek employment with Air Force CYP, FCC, and/or as food service workers? Why do people stay employed with Air Force CYP, FCC, and/or as food service workers? Why do people choose to leave their Air Force CYP, FCC, and/or food service positions? Work will continue on this project through the next fiscal year. Army 4-H Camps Two States (TX and LA) that were unable to run camps in FY2021 received extensions but were unable to run camps in FY2022 due to staff turnover and recruitment purposes. These sub-awards were terminated and included two Deployment Camps and one Wounded Warrior Camp. Five States held Wounded Warrior Camps, and three states hosted Deployment Camps in FY2022. Preliminary numbers show that the camps served 187 youth in FY2022. 116 youth from Wounded Warrior and Gold Star Families, and 71 from families with a deployed parent. University of Minnesota Sub-Award K-State issued one sub-award to the University of Minnesota for the Youth Program Environment Rating Scale. Since the original sub-ward was established, Army CYS requested a change to the Scope of Work and budget. A modification was issued with a performance period end date of December 31, 2022. Suicidal Ideation Dr. Marcie Lutchenberg delivered the final training package, including a PowerPoint, a Facilitator Guide, and videos, to Army CYS in March 2022. In June 2022, Army CYS reported they would not be able to use the materials as presented. Unfortunately, since the sub-award for this project ended on May 31, 2022, the effort has ceased. The author of the training has transferred ownership of all materials to Army CYS and issued permission to make any changes needed/desired to ensure the effective use of materials. Army 4-H Curriculum The K-State Project team sent Let's Bake Quick Breads to 67 garrisons. The package contained a cover letter explaining the kit's contents, including the facilitator guide, lesson plans and resources for four activities, and a link to an evaluation of the material. Unfortunately, we received zero responses. The A4-HYDS offered training on the kit virtually on February 22, 2022. Eight participants attended the live training. A link to the recorded session was shared with Army CYS leaders to distribute to garrisons worldwide. In April 2022, the K-State Project team sent GEM: Get Experience in Mindfulness to 67 garrisons. The package contained a cover letter, the facilitator guide, and a participant workbook. Authors of GEM provided training via Zoom on May 23, 2022, with 21 Army CYS professionals attending the live event. A link to the recorded session was shared with Army CYS leaders to distribute to garrisons worldwide. In July 2022, the K-State Project team sent Rain to Drain to 67 garrisons. The package contained a cover letter and a facilitator guide. Authors of Rain to Drain provided training via Zoom on September 6, 2022. A link to the recorded session was shared with Army CYS leaders to distribute to garrisons worldwide. The final package, Finding Your Voice: Public Speaking Made Easy, will be sent to 67 garrisons worldwide in October 2022. The package will include a cover letter and the facilitator guide. Training will be scheduled after the packages have been shipped. Virtual College & Career Fair The Project offered the 2022 Army Child and Youth Service College and Career Fair to all military-connected youth and their families on April 28, 2022, from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Central via the vFairs platform. Over 360 participants (183 identified as Army-connected) registered to attend the event, which over 60 booth exhibitors supported. Access to all booths remained open through May 28, 2022, since not everyone could attend the live event. Only 48 participants joined the live event. An additional 30 participants accessed information through the 30-days following the event (total participants equaled 78). Of those who attended either live or through access, 26 were parents, 22 were students, 15 were service providers, and 15 were unidentified. We received only two responses to the event survey; therefore, we did not develop a report on the event's impact. Responses to an exhibitor questionnaire following the event suggested the time in which the event was offered (Spring) was not effective, the method of the event (virtual), and the length of time the event lasted (over 4 hours) was not effective. Few reported interest in participating in future years.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/20 to 08/31/21
Outputs
Target Audience:Military-connected youth are at risk from a variety of factors including 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 crucial. Children of military service members, including Active Duty, and National Guard and Reserve, are the primary audience for the 4-H Military Partnerships Project. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons are the target audience for the Request for Applications for the 4-H Military Partnerships Outreach and Support grants. The target audience for Army Camps is children of deployed or wounded soldiers. The target audience for the Air Force/4-H Youth Camp program is children of Air Force service members - both Active Duty and Guard and Reserve. Changes/Problems:Covid-19 has had a negative impact on several planned efforts for state sub-awards during this reporting period. State 4-H Military Liaisons have been creative with offering both professional development and 4-H opportunities to Air Force Child and Youth professionals despite the challenges. States have reported, however, difficulty in gathering data to show the impact of the work due to limited CYP facilities that were open through the performance period. 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 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 the 4-H National STEM Challenge and other STEM topics, Leadership, Public Speaking, Forensics, Financial Planning, Healthy Snacks, and Small Animals How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The 2020 Annual report was shared (via print copy and electronically) with all State and Military stakeholders, and USDA, in May 2021. The report was also placed on the project website, https://4-hmilitarypartnerships.org/, for any interested parties to access. The 2021 Annual report will be produced and distributed in Spring 2022. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?To continue spending down DAF dollars available in the award, Kansas State University Project staff, in collaboration with DAF leaders, will develop an RFA for sub-awards to support additional efforts in states. Target deliverables have not yet been solidified, however, it is likely funds will be used to support additional projects in states and DAF 4-H Youth Camps. Several sub-awards for Army Camps have no cost time extensions in place through Summer 2022 because of either limited registrations due to COVID restrictions, or the inability to host a camp due to COVID restrictions.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Air Force 4-H Outreach and Support Project In Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21), the Project experienced a slight change in funding, which impacted the amount available to sub-award to states. Due to the allocation available from military partners, sub-awards focused on providing service and opportunities for Air Force connected youth and Child and Youth Programs (CYP) Professionals both on-installations and in local communities rather than the historical support for Air Force, Army, and Navy connected youth. The Project awarded over five-hundred thousand dollars to twenty-eight Land Grant Universities to enhance military 4-H clubs, expand program options, and provide professional development opportunities to support Air Force Child and Youth Programs professionals. Extension 4-H Military Liaisons provided leadership to this Project on behalf of each state's 4-H Youth Development departments. The liaisons link the state extension programs, military service branches, and 4-H National Headquarters located within USDA/NIFA. They coordinate, network, and facilitate programs and resources working with various partners at the university level, with military partners, and with partners across their states in support of military children, youth, and family programming. In addition to the 4-H MPOS awards, the Project funded twelve Air Force 4-H camps in eleven states. Due to the pandemic, all but one camp has been rescheduled for FY21 (through no-cost time extensions on sub-awards). The global pandemic took a toll on FY21 plans for many states. From canceled trainings, conferences, camps, and meetings to discovering ways to take the historic in-person approach of 4-H experiences virtually, many states have shared valuable resources and expertise that can be replicated throughout project efforts. Quarterly reports through the end of July 31, 2021, show that Project partners reached over 13,600 Air Force Connected youth on installations and in local communities. Feedback received from military-connected youth and parents describing 4-H clubs, programming and camps included: "My kids loved getting their kit in the mail and will be excited for another. This is such a great program!" - Parent, Connecticut "I always thought I was a leader but now I know how to be a better leader." - Youth, California "Coming to camp has helped me dive headfirst into situations that I would otherwise avoid. This camp has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I have tried new activities and made friends to last a lifetime." - Youth, Colorado "4-H helps to give me the chance to make my imagination stronger and better. In the future, I may be able to use these skills to make something bigger and better." - Youth, Delaware "My daughter is so excited about the photography club [and] is eager to have the socialization." - Parent, Hawaii And Air Force CYP staff shared these comments: "The children love to clean up our gardens. This project helped them feel proud of what we can accomplish as a team!" - CYP Professional, California "Bracelet making is a fun activity because youth get to incorporate their own style of beading, but we have also been able to introduce them to culture by providing them with beads from around the world, like African beads. They also get the opportunity to practice their fine motor skills through bead making." - CYP Professional, Florida "The Embryology was a huge success. We hatched 12 chickens and the children were very involved in their care. It was a great experience overall for staff and Youth. We will definitely do this again next year." - CYP Professional, Oklahoma "With the added challenge of providing programming during the pandemic and the increased stress this has placed on our staff, families, and youth, we are able to fall back on our 4-H training and feel more assured and knowledgeable. We have had training on providing virtual programming that has been very helpful." - CYP Professional, Texas Air Force 4-H Youth Development Specialist Funding identified for the Air Force 4-H Youth Development Specialist through North Carolina State University assisted with several efforts to expand 4-H opportunities for Air Force-connected youth. Key accomplishments of the 4-H Air Force Specialists in Fiscal Year 2021 include: In calendar year 2020, more than 26,000 Department of Air Force youth participated in 4-H clubs and activities on installations and via virtual platforms. Coordinated efforts with Air Force Youth Programs professionals to conduct the 4-H National STEM Challenge, Mars Base Camp. Group leader for military teens and Youth Programs professionals from Air Force and Navy Child and Youth Programs at the National 4-H Youth STEM Summit. Facilitated group challenges, debriefed sessions, and engaged teens and adults in STEM challenges. Participated in the USAF Flight Chiefs and Community Child Care Coordinator Summit and trained over 150 participants on the 4-H Air Force Partnership, 4-H Positive Youth Development, MN REACH developmental modules, BGCA and 4-H Program Integration, and 4-H resources Army 4-H Camps Work has begun on formalizing the Army Camps. In January 2020, a Grant Specialist (GS) was hired at K-State to focus on the development of an RFA for camp awards. The GS has completed training with the Search Institute and has worked with the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop open channels of communication to reach the targeted audiences. Due to the pandemic, a scheduled in-person meeting with Army CYS leadership had to be changed to that of a virtual meeting which pushed back our intended timeline. Since then, the RFA has been developed and released to the 4-H Military Liaison listserv, with a due date of September 18, 2020. During the past year, we funded nine LGUs to provide 4-H Camps targeted for the youth of Wounded Warriors or deployed soldiers. Wounded Warrior camps required a residential component for youth ages 8-18, and the Deployment Camps could be either a day camp format (ages 6-18) or a residential camp format (ages 12-18). Fast facts for camps include: Five Wounded Warrior Camps ran in FY2021 Four Deployment Camps ran in FY2021 90 youth were served at Wounded Warrior Camps 65 Army-connected youth 162 youth were served at Deployment Camps 138 Army-connected youth Four of the five Wounded Warrior camps have submitted no-cost extensions into FY2022 to serve more youth. There will be a total of six states running Wounded Warrior Camps in FY2022 There will be a total of six states running Deployment Camps in FY2022
Publications
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Progress 09/01/19 to 08/31/20
Outputs
Target Audience:Military-connected youth are at risk from a variety of factors including 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 crucial. Children of military service members, including Active Duty, and National Guard and Reserve, are the primary audience for the 4-H Military Partnerships Project. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons are the target audience for the Request for Applications for the 4-H Military Partnerships Outreach and Support grants. The target audience for Army Camps is children of deployed or wounded soldiers. The target audience for the Air Force/4-H Youth Camp program is children of Air Force service members - both Active Duty and Guard and Reserve. Changes/Problems:Covid-19 has had a negative impact on several planned efforts for state sub-awards during this reporting period. State 4-H Military Liaisons have been creative with offering both professional development and 4-H opportunities to Air Force Child and Youth professionals despite the challenges. States have reported, however, difficulty in gather data to show the impact of the work due to limited CYP facilities that are open. 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 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 How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The 2019 Annual report was shared (via print copy and electronically) with all State and Military stakeholders, and USDA, in May 2020. The report was also placed on the project website, https://4-hmilitarypartnerships.org/, for any interested parties to access. The 2020 Annual report will be produced and distributed in Spring 2021. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Funds for continued project work have been made available by Army CYS for FY21 sub-awards to states. Kansas State University staff are working to develop an RFA for sub-awards for support of efforts in states based upon the proposed budget for this award submitted late August 2020. The Project Team is working to determine how to ensure efforts for Air Force can also continue for FY20. Due to the pandemic, many sub-awards for FY20 will have funds remaining, and no-cost time extensions are likely. Air Force Camps originally planned for FY20 were eligible to receive NCTEs. All but two camps have been rescheduled for FY21. Sub-awards for Army Camps will be announced no later than December 2020, with a performance period to begin January 2021.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
In Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20), the Project experienced a slight change in funding, which impacted the amount available to sub-award to states. Due to the allocation available from military partners for FY20, sub-awards focused on providing service and opportunities for Air Force connected youth and CYP Professionals both on-installations and in local communities rather than the historical support for Air Force, Army, and Navy Connected youth. The Project awarded over five-hundred thousand dollars to twenty-eight Land Grant Universities to enhance military 4-H clubs, expand program options, and provide professional development opportunities to support Air Force Child and Youth Programs professionals. Extension 4-H Military Liaisons provided leadership to this Project on behalf of the 4-H Youth Development departments in each state. The liaisons serve as a link between the state extension programs, military service branches, and 4-H National Headquarters located within USDA/NIFA. They coordinate, network, and facilitate programs and resources working with a variety of partners at the university level, with military partners, and with partners across their states in support of military children, youth, and family programming. In addition to the 4-H MPOS awards, the Project funded twelve Air Force camps in eleven states. Due to the pandemic, all but two camps have been rescheduled for FY21 (through no-cost time extensions on sub-awards). The global pandemic has taken a toll on FY20 plans for many states. From canceled trainings, conferences, camps, and meetings to discovering ways to take the historic in-person approach of 4-H experiences virtually, many states have shared valuable resources and expertise that can be replicated throughout project efforts. Though several states struggled to collect data for the First and Second quarter report, for the first half of fiscal year 2020, Project partners reached at least 14,373 Air Force Connected youth on installations and in local communities. Feedback from States has so far included: "While our reports don't break down youth based upon service, 97 clubs represent counties that reported enrollment of military youth. Geo-dispersed represents the work we are doing across the state outside of the two counties with Active Duty Air Force Installations." - Georgia "Working as an intern on the 4-H MPP Outreach and Support Project has given me the chance to learn skills I would not learn otherwise such as writing a grant, budgeting, and reporting for the grant. When I graduate from college next month, I will have knowledge that many others do not, because of this opportunity." - student intern, LA 4-H "As a teen volunteer experience, one Langley youth assisted with STEM Trailer activities for a military community event. Approximately 200 family members visited the trailer and learned about programming at the Langley youth center. Some of the 4-H projects included in the STEM Trailer included Drones, coding, and other National Youth Science Day experiments." - Virginia Feedback received from youth and parents on 4-H clubs, programming and camps included: "Thank you for giving my son the opportunity to show off his abilities. I appreciate all that you do." - parent, California "Our children's first kit just came in and they are loving it. Please send us the second when you have time. Thank you." -parent regarding the 4-H in a Bag kit created in response to COVID, Connecticut "One of the youth stated to our staff person: 'You are turning my whole life into heaven"'" - Delaware "I enjoyed getting to share my families story and the stuggles of having a parent deployed. It really seemd to make the other teens understand what we go through as a military family" - teen participant, New Mexico And Air Force CYP staff shared these comments: "Question: What did you like MOST about this training? Response: Gaining new knowledge, the hands-on activities, new activities to do and teach kids, and resources for future lesson plans." - Colorado "[These workshops] have been some of the best and immediately useful information that [I] have received. We liked being able to participate in the discussions [during the training, i.e., an interactive approach]." - Washington Funding identified for the Air Force 4-H Youth Development Specialist through North Carolina State University and the University of Georgia assisted with several efforts to expand 4-H opportunities for Air Force connected youth. Funding for the University of Georgia was limited to six months in FY20 due to changes in personnel and scope. Key accomplishments of the 4-H Air Force Specialists in Fiscal Year 2020 include: As part of the 4-H Military Partnership working group, coordinated efforts to host and conduct the Staying Connected, Advancing Together virtual training that reached more than 500 military youth professionals and 4-H Extension educators. Since Air Force was the only service branch able to provide funds for the FY20 4-H Military Partnership Outreach and Support sub-awards for states, the Specialists worked closely with Kansas State University on all aspects of the application, review, and award processes. Coordinated efforts for the Air Force 4-H youth camp proposals. Twelve camp grants were awarded to eleven Land Grant Universities to expand military youth and teen camp experiences. Air Force 4-H camps would have served more than 600 youth if not postponed due to the global pandemic. Completed the program evaluation related to the 4-H / Air Force Camping grants, providing a final report to HQ USAF A1SOC. Completed the evaluation of the Air Force Teen Leadership Summits and supported the HQ USAF A1SOC support of the Air Force Teen Leadership Summits with the Air Force Services Center and the selected vendors. Collaborated with Air Force Youth Programs and 4-H Extension Agents to establish and sustain 4-H clubs and programs at Air Force bases worldwide by providing leadership, technical assistance, training, and resources to foster the relationship between Air Force Youth Programs, State 4-H Military Liaisons, and local County 4-H Extension staff to build 4-H programs and provide 4-H opportunities for military families, youth and staff. UGA focused its support on the Guard and Reserve audience as well as geographically dispersed youth and families. Developed and shared virtual program resources to support military families, Child and Youth Programs professionals, 4-H educators, youth, and teens as face to face learning, trainings, and events moved to a virtual platform due to the pandemic. Work has begun on formalizing the Army Camps. In January 2020, a Grant Specialist (GS) was hired at K-State to focus on the development of an RFA for camp awards. The GS has completed training with the Search Institute and has worked with the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop open channels of communication to reach the targeted audiences. Due to the pandemic, a scheduled in-person meeting with Army CYS leadership had to be changed to that of a virtual meeting, which pushed back our intended timeline. Since then, the RFA has been developed and released to the 4-H Military Liaison listserv, with a due date of September 18, 2020. Beginning in FY21, we anticipate funding 10-15 camps targeting Wound Warriors or deployed soldiers' youth and families. Through the Wounded Warrior camps, we are seeking LGUs interested in hosting a residential camp for youth ages 12-18 for a minimum of five days. For the Deployment Camps, we are seeking LGUs interested in hosting either a day-camp for ages 6-18 or a residential camp for youth ages 12-18. Both the day-camp and residential camp for the Deployed population must be for three or more days.
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Progress 09/01/18 to 08/31/19
Outputs
Target Audience:Children and youth of military service members, including Active Duty, and National Guard and Reserve, are the primary audience for the 4-H Military Partnerships Project. Military-connected youth are at risk from a variety of factors including 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 crucial. The Extension 4-H Military Liaisons are the target audience for the Request for Applications for the 4-H Military Partnerships grants, Air Force/4-H Partnership Youth Camps, and the Army Specialty Camps and related training. 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 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 numbers reached for the entire fiscal year, are due October 31, 2019. 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?Army Camps - Fudning wsa not released for Army Camps for FY19. Discussions have taken place with Army leadership to develop plans for camps in FY20. Due to difficulty with determining how data is collected in each of the partnering states, an Annual Report was not developed for FY18. This has been addressed through a goal established through the MWG Data Committee. Plans have been identified to ensure the proper annual reporting for FY19 occurs as required after all Annual Reports are received from each of the sub-awardees.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
In Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19), the Project awarded over 1.3 million dollars to 42 states to provide 4-H experiences in citizenship, healthy living, and science to military youth on and off military installations through the 4-H Military Partnership Grant program. Extension 4-H Military Liaisons provided leadership to this project on behalf of the 4-H Youth Development departments in each state. Liaisons serve as a link between the state extension programs, military service branches, and 4-H National Headquarters located within USDA/NIFA. They coordinate, network, and facilitate programs and resources working with a variety of partners at the university level, with military partners, and with partners across their states in support of military children, youth, and family programming. For the first half of fiscal year 2019, Project partners reached 24,845 youth on installations and 17,169 youth in local communities. Feedback received from youth on 4-H clubs, programming and camps have included: "I enjoyed having the chance to build something like engineering topics and finding the real-world connection from the things I learned in school." - Participant "Flying drones was so fun. I never thought I would get to fly a drone, and I can't wait to tell my dad. He's going to freak". -Comment made by a geographically dispersed military youth during a 4-H club hands-on program for military kids in their community. Feedback received from partners has included: "I think the partnership between the National Guard and 4-H is awesome. I have watched the kids all day, and they have been engaged in all the activities and have had a blast!" - Parent "I had no clue that 4-H was something my kids would like. I always thought it was about animals. I want to call the 4-H people in our community to see if they have a robotics program. My daughter really had a great time today". - Parent "I believe it's important that youth learn how to cook, sew, and paint. The kids don't have that in school anymore." - Parent And CYS/CYP staff shared these comments: In response to the GEM (Get Experience in Mindfulness peer-reviewed 4-H curriculum), a middle school classroom teacher stated, "The breathing and relaxing techniques made a marked improvement in calming the classroom down and getting their attention." She specifically mentioned one youth whose parents are deployed, as he does not usually talk or share, but since doing these activities, he is making more peer connections and starting to share his thoughts and opinions. A volunteer educator received a note from one of the middle school students on the base. The letter says, "I just want to take a second to let you know how grateful this school is to have you. You have brought in so many cool and fun activities that took my mind off my dad's deployment. It has helped me get through it faster and for me to make new friends, so thank you so much". Funding identified for the Air Force 4-H Youth Development Specialist through North Carolina State University assisted with several efforts to expand 4-H opportunities for Air Force connected youth. Key accomplishments of the 4-H Air Force Specialist in Fiscal Year 2019 include: Through a grant from Google, Air Force Youth Programs was offered scholarships for youth and educators to attend the National 4-H Youth Maker Summit. The Specialist worked with Air Force Youth Programs in Washington D.C., Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, and New Jersey to identify interested teams, registered them for the conference, and prepared students for the event. Connected with the OSD working group who developed the 2019 Inspection Criteria to plan and develop appropriate sessions to train inspectors from all branches of the service in November. He reviewed criteria and update slides, scenarios, and training activities. Assisted with the review of all sub-award applications from partnering states for FY19 programs and efforts. Provided logistical support and coordination for 16 Air-Force Camps in 15 states that will serve an anticipated 630 military youth and teens. Connected several 4-H Military Liaisons to help make connections with Air Force installation CYP educators and provide 4-H resources for programming. Worked closely with the Navy 4-H Youth Specialist to develop materials for an educational session at the OSD Inspectors Training that explored the Programming criteria for school-age and teens as it pertains to the higher headquarters inspections for all Services. He co-presented the session to 75 Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine, and DLA inspectors with positive results. Funding identified for the Air Force Specialist through the University of Georgia assisted with several efforts to expand 4-H opportunities for Air Force connected youth. Key accomplishments of the 4-H Air force Specialist included: Evaluations of the Air Force Camping Grants, as well as the Military Teen Leadership Summits. Assisted with the review of all sub-award applications from partnering states for both the regular 4-H MPOS award as well as Air Force Camps awards. Participated in multiple planning sessions for DoD Inspectors training and facilitated training efforts for this audience. The Navy 4-H Specialist has so far this year provided over 115 hours of training to over 1260 staff, volunteers, and youth. In addition to these training efforts, she has: Conducted training, provided briefings, and planned and facilitated multiple webinars including topics such as Positive Youth Development, Programming with the End in Mind, Youth-Adult Partnerships, Learning to Lead, Makerspace Your Lessons, to name just a few. Created on-line resources and maintained social media are available to Navy and Extension 4-H professionals. Completed multiple site-visits to Navy installations to provide in-person training and technical assistance. Supported and assisted with Navy CYP initiatives, including a redesign of activity plans, Operation Megaphone, Youth of the Year and Military Leadership Institute. In addition to the specific position based accomplishments for each Specialist, all three: Participated in monthly Zoom video sessions with the full 4-H MPP as well as the MWG, sharing information regarding Air Force and Navy efforts. Participated in the Fiscal Year 2019 Strategic Planning Event with members from the Military Work Group (MWG), representatives of all military branches, and the Project team at KSU, where they assisted with the development and formalization of the Project's vision and mission statements and the development of five primary goals for the Project. Worked together and with KSU Project staff to develop a presentation to address the 2018-2019 CYFAR grant intended to train Extension and Military CYP educators and volunteers in 4-H 101, positive youth development and successful collaborations within the 4-H Military Partnership.
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