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Journal of Extension

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Exploring The Current Landscape Of After-School Programs In 4-H, Theresa M Ferrari, Travis West Oct 2026

Exploring The Current Landscape Of After-School Programs In 4-H, Theresa M Ferrari, Travis West

Journal of Extension

After-school programs have attracted considerable attention as a setting for positive youth development programming, and 4-H has been part of the growth of the after-school field. We undertook the current study to describe the extent of after-school programming in 4-H and to learn about the breadth of program offerings and their frequency, duration, and location. The 139 respondents to our 15-question Qualtrics survey were from all regions of the United States and conducted programs in diverse communities. The information gained from this survey provides a snapshot of how 4-H professionals are involved with after-school programs in their communities.


Are Extension Agriculture Programs Hitting Their Target With Military Veterans?, Adam Ingrao, Craig W Carpenter, Michael Lotspeich-Yadao, Charles M. Tolbert Jul 2026

Are Extension Agriculture Programs Hitting Their Target With Military Veterans?, Adam Ingrao, Craig W Carpenter, Michael Lotspeich-Yadao, Charles M. Tolbert

Journal of Extension

The desire to support military veterans has led to a variety of targeted Extension programs, but the types and availability of these programs vary substantially. After reviewing the size and diversity of the U.S. veteran population, we examine one of the main USDA programs targeting veterans: the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development program. We then use matrix analysis to categorize veteran support programs across other program areas. Finally, we compare these programs with veterans' needs, as described in recently conducted veteran focus groups, and conclude by highlighting gaps and opportunities for improving Extension programming for veterans, including substantially improving program …


Faculty Roles And Responsibilities Supporting Extension Health Initiatives: Suggestions To Maximize Campus-Field Partnerships, Christine A. Fruhauf, Maria Delgado, Sue Schneider May 2025

Faculty Roles And Responsibilities Supporting Extension Health Initiatives: Suggestions To Maximize Campus-Field Partnerships, Christine A. Fruhauf, Maria Delgado, Sue Schneider

Journal of Extension

The past several decades of Extension scholarship have addressed topics related to creating pathways for stronger campus-field based connections. Several attempts have been made to support such efforts, including creating content-driven teams of research/teaching faculty and Extension professionals; state-wide tours where campus-based faculty and administrators visit with Extension staff in their county offices and in the field; and making new campus-based faculty and staff hires with a percentage of Extension appointments. Although these strategies have merit, addressing how these initiatives can support the goal of strengthening the work of campus- and field-based faculty to influence the mission of land-grant institutions …


Strategies For Lgbtq+ Inclusivity Among Elementary School Aged Youths In Extension, Maru Gonzalez, Michael Kokozos, Sudha Sankar Nov 2024

Strategies For Lgbtq+ Inclusivity Among Elementary School Aged Youths In Extension, Maru Gonzalez, Michael Kokozos, Sudha Sankar

Journal of Extension

While there is a growing body of scholarship related to LGBTQ+ inclusive practices among adolescents in 4-H, there is currently no research focused specifically on elementary school aged youths. This paper identifies research-based strategies to foster LGBTQ+ inclusivity among elementary school aged youths in 4-H and provides recommendations for implementation at the individual and institutional level. These strategies include ongoing professional development, supportive adult relationships, inclusive curriculum and programming, and LGBTQ+ inclusive guidance and protocols. The strategies and recommendations for implementation underscore the need for a multi-faceted approach to create more welcoming spaces that benefit all youths.


Virtual Culinary Nutrition Education: Youth And Parent/Guardian Acceptability Of The Switch Cooking School, Summer Mcvicker, Laura Paulsen, Anna Mlodzik, Allison Henry, Maren Wolff Nov 2024

Virtual Culinary Nutrition Education: Youth And Parent/Guardian Acceptability Of The Switch Cooking School, Summer Mcvicker, Laura Paulsen, Anna Mlodzik, Allison Henry, Maren Wolff

Journal of Extension

Face-to-face cooking programs can positively impact food choices, fruit and vegetable intake, and cooking self-efficacy; however, little is known about virtual cooking programs. We studied the perceived acceptability of the virtual SWITCH Cooking School (SCS). Four monthly cooking classes were offered for each participating school. Classes included nutrition education, food safety, and cooking demonstrations. Feedback was collected through post-class surveys and focus groups with parent/guardian and youth participants. Families valued the convenience of the virtual delivery and were interested in participating again. Future considerations for the SCS include incorporating additional variety of culinary skills and modifying registration methods.


How To Build Community Networks And Resources Necessary For A Successful 4-H Program, Daniel P. Collins, K. S. U. Jayaratne, Shannon Mccollum Jun 2024

How To Build Community Networks And Resources Necessary For A Successful 4-H Program, Daniel P. Collins, K. S. U. Jayaratne, Shannon Mccollum

Journal of Extension

The purpose of this research was to explore the strategies effective in building community networks and pooling the resources necessary for laying the foundation to develop a successful county 4-H Extension program in early careers of Extension agents. We conducted this three-round Delphi study with a panel of specially selected 24 successful 4-H Extension agents. The Delphi research process led to identify seven strategies effective in building community networks and six strategies effective in building the necessary resources for the development of an effective county 4-H Extension program. We made practical recommendations based on these findings.


Latinx Science Students’ Sense Of Belonging In Rural Wisconsin, Patrick Robinson, Cynthia Baeza, Luis Gonzalez-Quizhpe, Abigail Robinson, Diego Román, Katherine Ward Apr 2024

Latinx Science Students’ Sense Of Belonging In Rural Wisconsin, Patrick Robinson, Cynthia Baeza, Luis Gonzalez-Quizhpe, Abigail Robinson, Diego Román, Katherine Ward

Journal of Extension

This study explores the sense of belonging of rural middle and high school Latinx science students in Wisconsin. Between 2000 and 2015, the Latinx population was the fastest growing ethnic group in Wisconsin and increased by 95%. Yet, little is known about the experiences of these students in rural schools or their engagement in science learning. Our research contributes to addressing this knowledge gap and provides insights into Latinx student experiences relative to the science classroom and community. Our findings indicate that a primary determinant of Latinx science students’ positive sense of belonging is a positive relationship with their teachers.


Time, Money, Or Knowledge: What Factors Are Associated With Implementing Youth Cooking Programs?, Alison C. Berg, Nancy O. Taylor, Courtney S. Brown, Silvia Q. Giraudo Sep 2023

Time, Money, Or Knowledge: What Factors Are Associated With Implementing Youth Cooking Programs?, Alison C. Berg, Nancy O. Taylor, Courtney S. Brown, Silvia Q. Giraudo

Journal of Extension

Research suggests participating in youth hands-on cooking programs, like those offered by Extension and 4-H, can improve nutrition behaviors and reduce the risk for obesity. We surveyed [STATE] Extension professionals (n = 127) to explore factors (e.g., employee characteristics, resources, county demographics) related to offering youth hands-on cooking programs and curricula used. Over 2/3 of participants offer programs and reported creating their own curriculum. More years of experience, having received Extension Specialist training, and increased confidence were positively related to offering these programs. Results suggest training could increase confidence and program implementation and standard curricula may be needed.


Maximizing The First-Year Planning Period For Scholarly Publications: Implications For Prospective Cyfar Grant Recipients, Sothy Eng, Manca Sustarsic, Nancy Ooki, Heather Greenwood, Christine Hanakawa May 2023

Maximizing The First-Year Planning Period For Scholarly Publications: Implications For Prospective Cyfar Grant Recipients, Sothy Eng, Manca Sustarsic, Nancy Ooki, Heather Greenwood, Christine Hanakawa

Journal of Extension

One of CYFAR's unique features is the built-in planning year for all grant recipients. We present our evaluation team’s approach during year 1 to establish a foundation and plan for scholarly publications during funding years 2–5. The systematic literature review provided the team with a better understanding of the culture and context of the project’s target population. Collaboration between PI/Co-PI and Evaluator served as a powerful tool to achieving this goal. Not only does this model benefit future CYFAR grant recipients’ and Extension professionals’ curriculum development and program evaluation, it can also inform recruitment efforts and community partnership development.


The Effects Of Active Shootings On 4-H Youth And Families, Melinda Garcia, Elizabeth Gangwer Dec 2022

The Effects Of Active Shootings On 4-H Youth And Families, Melinda Garcia, Elizabeth Gangwer

Journal of Extension

The effects of active shootings should be a priority to provide needed assistance to 4-H youth and families in coping with their social-emotional well-being. Exposure to such violence can lead to lasting impacts on youth that can affect behavior. Addressing this sensitive topic is crucial in ensuring that Extension professionals are prepared to meet the needs of youth and families. Higher rates of depression, aggression, to name a few, are a result of having witnessed such events as a shooting. Providing training for Extension personnel can aid in reducing the amount of PTSD and other social-emotional trauma.


Tools For Healthy Living: Lessons Learned About Program Efficacy, Youth Knowledge, And Youth Engagement, Sharon Gray, Jennifer Cushman, Miriah Kelly, Mary Margaret Gaudio, E. Jean Gubbins Mar 2022

Tools For Healthy Living: Lessons Learned About Program Efficacy, Youth Knowledge, And Youth Engagement, Sharon Gray, Jennifer Cushman, Miriah Kelly, Mary Margaret Gaudio, E. Jean Gubbins

Journal of Extension

Youth in grades 4 to 6 were presented with healthy living topics through a two cycle, 11-week 4-H after school curriculum designed for low income, urban populations. Pre- and post-surveys were used to measure knowledge of healthy homes topics such as mold and moisture, lead poisoning, pests, asthma triggers, smoking, and food safety. Daily journaling activities designed to measure youth engagement also added to the mixed data set. Lessons learned about program efficacy, youth knowledge, and youth engagement are presented.


A Case Of Shifting Focus Friction: Extension Directors And State 4-H Program Leaders’ Perspectives On 4-H Lgbtq+ Inclusion, Jeremy Elliott-Engel, Donna Westfall-Rudd, Eric Kaufman, Megan Seibel, Rama Radhakrishna Dec 2021

A Case Of Shifting Focus Friction: Extension Directors And State 4-H Program Leaders’ Perspectives On 4-H Lgbtq+ Inclusion, Jeremy Elliott-Engel, Donna Westfall-Rudd, Eric Kaufman, Megan Seibel, Rama Radhakrishna

Journal of Extension

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 …


Engaging Corporate Partners To Build Your 4-H Program: Tips For Success, Marissa Staffen, Amanda Meek, Beth Hecht, Patricia Anderson Oct 2021

Engaging Corporate Partners To Build Your 4-H Program: Tips For Success, Marissa Staffen, Amanda Meek, Beth Hecht, Patricia Anderson

Journal of Extension

This article discusses best practices learned from a corporate partnership between Bayer, 4-H county programs in Missouri, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania; and National 4-H Council. This corporate partnership has blossomed into a multi-level engagement that is offering unique opportunities for both Bayer and 4-H programs at the local and state level. Authors share lessons learned that can be utilized for colleagues to leverage mutually beneficial corporate partnership to expand their work in the community.


4-H Student Nutrition Advisory Councils Support Positive Youth Development And Health Outcomes Among Underserved Populations, Shannon Klisch, Katherine E. Soule Sep 2021

4-H Student Nutrition Advisory Councils Support Positive Youth Development And Health Outcomes Among Underserved Populations, Shannon Klisch, Katherine E. Soule

Journal of Extension

4-H SNAC Clubs engage youth in low-income schools with majority Latinx enrollment in leadership activities to increase schoolwide health and wellness. 4-H SNAC Clubs aim to develop youth health leaders, establish youth-adult partnerships, and increase access to 4-H in Latinx communities. Outcomes related to healthful living and positive youth development were assessed using the Teen Teacher Retrospective Survey (n=59) across five 4-H SNAC Clubs. Results show positive outcomes related to self-reported health behaviors for students and their families and leadership development. 4-H SNAC Clubs can increase access to 4-H among Latinx youth and support healthier communities through the Supplemental Nutrition …


4-H Youth Development Programming In Indigenous Communities: A Critical Review Of Cooperative Extension Literature, Joshua Farella, Mike Hauser, Amy Parrott, Joshua D. Moore, Meghan Penrod, Jeremy Elliott-Engel Jul 2021

4-H Youth Development Programming In Indigenous Communities: A Critical Review Of Cooperative Extension Literature, Joshua Farella, Mike Hauser, Amy Parrott, Joshua D. Moore, Meghan Penrod, Jeremy Elliott-Engel

Journal of Extension

A literature review was conducted using the key words relating to Native American Youth and 4-H to assess the current state of 4-H youth programming serving First Nation/ Indigenous populations to inform future Extension initiatives. A systematic and qualitative review determined what level of focus the conducted programming efforts placed on broadly accepted elements of cultural identity as noted in the Peoplehood Model. A very small number of articles (N=13) were found pertaining to 4-H and Indigenous Communities. Fewer demonstrated emphasis on the peoplehood elements of language, place, traditional ceremony or calendars, and history. This work investigates a continuing inequity …


The Military Families Learning Network: A Model For Extension-Based Virtual Learning Communities, Christopher Plein, Alicia Cassels Feb 2021

The Military Families Learning Network: A Model For Extension-Based Virtual Learning Communities, Christopher Plein, Alicia Cassels

Journal of Extension

This article provides an overview of Extension's Military Families Learning Network. The network is an example of Extension's commitment to building virtual learning networks in the support of targeted professional and lay audiences. The network uses well-established and emergent pedagogical approaches focusing on adult-centered learning while employing state-of-the-art online learning technologies. We present a four-dimensional model of learning activities to illustrate how the network offers different options for and approaches to adult-centered learning and training. The Military Families Learning Network can serve as a model for broader adoption of such entities across the Extension community.


Using Learning Management Systems To Provide 4-H Programming During The Covid-19 Pandemic And Beyond, Sarah Morefield, Maria G. Fabregas Janeiro Dec 2020

Using Learning Management Systems To Provide 4-H Programming During The Covid-19 Pandemic And Beyond, Sarah Morefield, Maria G. Fabregas Janeiro

Journal of Extension

Using a learning management system (LMS), such as Canvas, to provide 4-H programming can support program growth. With the onset in 2020 of the COVID-19 pandemic, 4-H professionals have been forced to move face-to-face activities online and challenged to work differently and in innovative ways to continue offering youth development opportunities. Responding to this challenge, Missouri 4-H created an online resource using the Canvas LMS to offer 4-H volunteers and families project opportunities and research-based project materials in one easily accessible and affordable platform.


Engaging Teens And Adults In Mindfulness: The University Of California 4-H Mindfulness Retreat, Kendra M. Lewis, Anne M. Iaccopucci, Katherine E. Soule Aug 2020

Engaging Teens And Adults In Mindfulness: The University Of California 4-H Mindfulness Retreat, Kendra M. Lewis, Anne M. Iaccopucci, Katherine E. Soule

Journal of Extension

The University of California (UC) 4-H Mindfulness Retreat was developed on the basis of current research of positive youth outcomes associated with mindfulness. Curricula, resources, and programming were developed to introduce participants to mindfulness to improve overall health. The UC 4-H Mindfulness Retreat provides training and opportunities to teens and adults in the areas of mindfulness, nutrition, physical activity, stress management, relationship building, community connection, and advocacy. We present outcomes, successes, and lessons learned related to developing and executing a statewide mindfulness retreat for youths and adults.


Improving Parental Engagement For Latino Youths' Educational Success: Lessons From Juntos Oregon, Daniel F. López-Cevallos, Amy W. Young, Ana Gómez-Diazgranados, Yuridia Reyes, José R. Garcia, Jeff Sherman, Gina Galaviz-Yap Aug 2020

Improving Parental Engagement For Latino Youths' Educational Success: Lessons From Juntos Oregon, Daniel F. López-Cevallos, Amy W. Young, Ana Gómez-Diazgranados, Yuridia Reyes, José R. Garcia, Jeff Sherman, Gina Galaviz-Yap

Journal of Extension

Research has shown that more efforts are needed to increase high school completion and postsecondary enrollment among Latino youths. However, little is known regarding efforts that engage both Latino youths and their parents. To address this gap, we surveyed Juntos Oregon participants to examine the school and community context Latino youths and their families face in the educational journey and identify effects of the Juntos program. Results showed that in a context of persistent discrimination and unfair treatment, Juntos workshops increased the sense of school and community connectedness among Latino parents. Increases in academic planning and motivation occurred as well. …


Best Practices For Engaging Communities Of Color In Opioid Prevention Programs, Maru Gonzalez, Autumn Guin, Kim Allen, Amy G. Chilcote, Paul J. Toriello, Ebonyse P. Mead Jun 2020

Best Practices For Engaging Communities Of Color In Opioid Prevention Programs, Maru Gonzalez, Autumn Guin, Kim Allen, Amy G. Chilcote, Paul J. Toriello, Ebonyse P. Mead

Journal of Extension

The United States has an opioid epidemic that requires efforts to help youths and families navigate complex challenges. Extension professionals are being called on to develop programs that equitably and effectively engage and serve audiences across racial and ethnic differences. To accomplish this, Extension professionals must understand the systemic and historic inequities that have shaped prevention and treatment initiatives within communities of color. Establishing culturally responsive practices is essential for building successful prevention programs. This article presents an overview of historical occurrences, challenges faced by communities of color, and recommendations for best practices.


Publishing An Online Research Review: Engaging University And Community Authors In Communication About Research, Cari Michaels Jun 2020

Publishing An Online Research Review: Engaging University And Community Authors In Communication About Research, Cari Michaels

Journal of Extension

Extension professionals need easy access to published research and the means to translate it in meaningful ways. They also aim to engage community partners in applying research findings. The Children's Mental Health eReview serves as an example of a process for engaged writing with community partners as well as a product that summarizes current research and its relevance. The eReview reaches a wide audience, promotes practice change among readers, and serves as a useful model for other areas of Extension work.


Evaluation Of Juntos 4-H: A Wraparound Program Helping Latinx High Schoolers Succeed, Andrew O. Behnke, Diana M. Urieta, Siyu Duan, Zach Lewis Apr 2020

Evaluation Of Juntos 4-H: A Wraparound Program Helping Latinx High Schoolers Succeed, Andrew O. Behnke, Diana M. Urieta, Siyu Duan, Zach Lewis

Journal of Extension

Preprogram and postprogram surveys of 241 Latinx 4-H youths from five counties in North Carolina provided a snapshot of their experiences in the Juntos 4-H program. The study findings demonstrate that Juntos 4-H has positive impacts on academics, college readiness, parent engagement, and community engagement. Suggestions are made to help Extension professionals elsewhere develop effective programs for Latinx youths.


4-H International Visitor Exchange Programming Barriers, Challenges, And Alternatives, K. S.U. Jayaratne, Daniel P. Collins Apr 2020

4-H International Visitor Exchange Programming Barriers, Challenges, And Alternatives, K. S.U. Jayaratne, Daniel P. Collins

Journal of Extension

The purpose of the Delphi study described in this article was to determine barriers, challenges, and alternatives related to planning and implementing 4-H international visitor exchange programs. The Delphi panel comprised 21 Extension agents selected from two southeastern states on the basis of their experience and/or interest in international visitor exchange programming. The Delphi panel identified seven barriers and 16 challenges related to planning and implementing 4-H international visitor exchange programs and 25 alternatives useful for overcoming those barriers and challenges. The study led to practical recommendations for educating agents for the task, recruiting and training host families, and preparing …


Embracing Diversity And Inclusion: An Organizational Change Model To Increase Intercultural Competence, Fe Moncloa, Shannon J. Horrillo, Dorina Espinoza, Russell Hill Dec 2019

Embracing Diversity And Inclusion: An Organizational Change Model To Increase Intercultural Competence, Fe Moncloa, Shannon J. Horrillo, Dorina Espinoza, Russell Hill

Journal of Extension

Professionals in Extension who develop intercultural competence are better prepared to meet the needs of multicultural populations. This article addresses University of California Extension's formation of an intercultural competence professional development initiative. We describe our use of an integrated conceptual framework that includes Hammer's Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) and Kotter's eight-step organizational change process to institutionalize the initiative. IDI pretest and posttest results indicate that California 4-H professionals are more culturally competent. The impact of the initiative also is reflected in the significant growth (151% increase) in Latino youth participation in 4-H. We provide recommendations for replicating our effort.


The Family Mealtime Study: Parent Socialization And Context During Family Meals, Car Mun Kok, Julia Torquati, Maria De Guzman Jun 2019

The Family Mealtime Study: Parent Socialization And Context During Family Meals, Car Mun Kok, Julia Torquati, Maria De Guzman

Journal of Extension

Research on the family mealtime has shown its importance for youths' dietary attitudes and behaviors. Youths who have more frequent family meals often have more healthful dietary behaviors. However, little is known about the context and processes related to how family mealtimes affect youths' dietary behaviors. To address this gap, we examined the context of family mealtimes and parent socialization that occurs during family meals through mealtime observations and interviews. Family mealtimes are valued by parents, and our findings can be useful to Extension professionals in educating parents and families regarding shaping of family mealtimes, feeding strategies, and nutrition.


Effective Communication Of 4-H Program Essentials To 4-H Families, Kendra M. Lewis, John Borba, Russell D. Hill, Jolynn C. Miller Jun 2019

Effective Communication Of 4-H Program Essentials To 4-H Families, Kendra M. Lewis, John Borba, Russell D. Hill, Jolynn C. Miller

Journal of Extension

Youths and parents in the California 4-H program have reported issues with communication and challenges in understanding the program. As a result, we developed a family handbook and other supporting documents to help youths and parents navigate the California 4-H program. This article addresses the development, dissemination, and reach of the handbook. Additionally, the article discusses future directions and implications for other Extension programs.


Effective Engagement With Latino Youths And Communities, Fe Moncloa, Claudia Diaz-Carrasco, Russell Hill, Nancy Erbstein Apr 2019

Effective Engagement With Latino Youths And Communities, Fe Moncloa, Claudia Diaz-Carrasco, Russell Hill, Nancy Erbstein

Journal of Extension

California's 4-H Youth Development Program adopted an asset-based and systematic community development approach to studying successful Latino-serving youth development programs. This effort included a scan of Latino engagement resources and Latino-serving youth development settings as well as key informant interviews. Beyond generating important data, the research process itself facilitated impactful Latino community outreach, relationship building, and engagement, suggesting multiple potential benefits to using a community development approach in research.


(Mis)Communicating With Geographic Information System Mapping: Part 1—Choosing Unit Of Representation, Rodrigo Cantarero, Maria Rosario De Guzman, Sarah Taylor, Soo-Young Hong, Jeong-Kyun Choi Apr 2019

(Mis)Communicating With Geographic Information System Mapping: Part 1—Choosing Unit Of Representation, Rodrigo Cantarero, Maria Rosario De Guzman, Sarah Taylor, Soo-Young Hong, Jeong-Kyun Choi

Journal of Extension

Extension professionals are increasingly using geographic information system (GIS) technology to develop and inform programs and services. In this article, we use a mapping exercise to demonstrate how the unit of data can be applied and inadvertently misrepresented in GIS mapping. We contrast the use of counts, percentages, and location quotients with the same data and the resulting divergence in maps. The discussion addresses ideal circumstances for using each unit of data. Overall, the article illustrates the need for Extension professionals to be cognizant of the benefits and limitations of various units of data to avoid miscommunication when using GIS …


Using American Indian Legends To Teach Youths Financial Literacy: Innovative Approaches To Cultural Adaptation, Jennifer Garbow, Rebecca Hagen Jokela, Jessie Rudi, Joyce Serido Feb 2019

Using American Indian Legends To Teach Youths Financial Literacy: Innovative Approaches To Cultural Adaptation, Jennifer Garbow, Rebecca Hagen Jokela, Jessie Rudi, Joyce Serido

Journal of Extension

In this article, we report on pilot implementation of a financial education program for American Indian (AI) youths. Our purpose is to share our experience engaging AI youths in a culturally relevant experience in which they learn financial education concepts. Specifically, we incorporated Ojibwe legends into lesson content to connect Ojibwe culture to the information being taught. We report a combination of quantitative survey data and qualitative observational notes that overall suggest evidence of success regarding effectively engaging AI youths in financial education. Our approach may be of particular interest to Extension educators working with youths from culturally underserved audiences.


Positive Youth Development For Health: Extension's Readiness For Multilevel Public Health Approaches, Carol Smathers, Maureen Toomey, Lisa Washburn, Karen Johnston, Anne M. Iaccopucci, Elaine Johannes, Martha Ravola Feb 2019

Positive Youth Development For Health: Extension's Readiness For Multilevel Public Health Approaches, Carol Smathers, Maureen Toomey, Lisa Washburn, Karen Johnston, Anne M. Iaccopucci, Elaine Johannes, Martha Ravola

Journal of Extension

Positive youth development for health is one of six priority areas identified in Cooperative Extension's National Framework for Health and Wellness. The objectives for this priority area target both individual- and community-level change. An assessment of Extension professionals' readiness to integrate community-level policy, systems, and environment change approaches into youth development efforts indicated various levels of familiarity with and willingness to implement multilevel strategies. Using these findings and the transtheoretical model as the organizing framework, we make recommendations for advancing Extension professionals' readiness to implement changes that make healthful options more available and accessible and help create a culture of …