Adams, Gerald (author), Jenson, Glen (author), Schvaneveldt, Jay (author), Young, Robert (author), and Jenson, Adams, Schvaneveldt: Utah State University, Logan, UT; Young: University of Nebraska, Omaha, NE
Format:
Journal article
Publication Date:
1982
Published:
USA: Madison, WI : Extension Journal.
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 87 Document Number: C05850
AGRICOLA IND 87058469, The purpose of this study was to determine the image of 4-H as perceived by 4-H contest winners. A questionnaire asking about family life, friendships, amount of involvement by family members in 4-H, the perceived image of the community and peer groups about 4-H, and other related items was given to the contestants. The 6 top-ranked reasons expressed by respondents for joining 4-H listed parents being a leader first, followed by encouragement by friends, personal enrichment, horse projects, livestock shows, and because the whole family was involved. These data suggest a need for more 4-H evaluation research. The awareness of the need for more research in Utah has certainly been heightened by the rather sparse availability of quality evaluative research data. We realize, of course that this sample isn't representative of the average 4-H youth in Utah, or elsewhere, but the results nevertheless raise important questions and concerns that we as Extension workers must take into consideration as we plan and develop programs in the area of youth development and 4-H work.
14 pages, For centuries music has played a vital role in the lives of people, communities, and organizations. This is the same for agricultural and youth organizations like the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and the New Farmers of America (NFA). From the very beginning of these youth groups, music has played an important part in the live’s of members, as well as in chapter, state, and national events. The purpose of this historical research study was to document the history of music within the Future Farmers of America and New Farmers of America youth organizations. Historical research methods were used to gather information for this study. From the beginnings of both the FFA and NFA, local advisors quickly saw the benefit of using music to build leadership, confidence, and esprit de corps among the boys in their organizations. The NFA developed quartet and talent competitions at the state and national levels. Both the FFA and NFA organizations established chorus groups for boys from across the country. The FFA placed more emphasis on state and national bands and orchestras than did the NFA. Song books were published to encourage the inclusion of singing in FFA and NFA events. Official manuals for the organizations included songs and yells that could be used in local chapter activities. Organization leaders saw the benefits of using music to inspire youth to develop their musical and leadership skills. Music has been a key component of the success of both the FFA and NFA organizations.
8 pages, Contemporary Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ+) youth are identifying and communicating their identities earlier in childhood than generations before as a result of more awareness and more acceptance of gender identity and sexual minorities by society. A qualitative study of U.S. 4-H program leaders and Extension directors generated an emergent theme around the importance of serving LGBT youth and the resulting implementation challenges. The administrators of 4-H, the largest youth serving organization in the country, recognize the presence of LGBTQ+ youth in 4-H and believe the organization must be inclusive. But challenges remain in ensuring youth experience inclusion at all levels of the organization and to manage political and societal pressures resulting from shifting focus friction.
