Given the fact that we lost 30% of our experienced 4-H agents due to the early Alternative Severance Option, our current field staff are working to reach and impact the lives of children and youth throughout our great state. The decline in numbers of youth reached could be far greater, but it is significant to realize that we are reaching a vast number of boys and girls through the 4-H program. The challenge is to recruit and employ quality staff to fill vacant positions that currently exist, and to have the resources to do so.
We are currently in the process of interviewing candidates for some of the vacancies in which we have no 4-H management leadership. At the present time, 16 counties and cities throughout the state do not have a 4-H manager--neither a 4-H agent nor a 4-H program assistant to lead the respective county or city 4-H program. We are hopeful that funding will be made soon to fill the positions with the Critical Staffing Initiative that is being introduced in this year's Virginia General Assembly. The current vacancies that exist are: Central District--4; Northern District--3; Northeast District--3; Northwest District--3; Southeast District--2; and Southwest District--1.
Many exciting opportunities are forthcoming this year in the 4-H program. I hope to see many of you at one or more of these educational events. Best wishes for the New Year.
Sincerely,
Robert Ray Meadows
Associate Director, 4-H
4-H Congress begins on Monday, June 28 and ends Thursday, July 1. Competition Day will be Tuesday, June 29. Information packets and registration will be available by March 1. (Congress dates were incorrect in the January Information Letter so please check your calendars)...
(Joe Hunnings)
Each Extension unit is encouraged to nominate a 4-H Volunteer leader that has a record of extraordinary service to Virginia 4-H State Congress. Years of service to 4-H Congress are certainly a factor, but also consider the nature and quality of the volunteer's involvement and leadership for Congress responsibilities and activities.
Deadline for nominations is May 28, 2004. Submit your nominations to: State 4-H Office, 115 Hutcheson Hall, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0419 or email hunnings@vt.edu
The selection will be made the first week of June and the person making the nomination will be notified by June 11 in order to coordinate the volunteer's presence to receive the award. The winner will be presented the award at the 4-H Congress Awards Banquet on Wednesday evening.
Nomination Information:
(Joseph R. Hunnings )
Each track will consist of 16-20 hours of programming designed to provide not only a solid knowledge base, but also to include an element of practical application of that knowledge based in the "real world" environment. Registration information will be available after January 2004. A limited number of spaces will be available, so you are encouraged to register early. For more information, contact Barry Garst at bgarst@vt.edu or (540) 231-6372.
(Barry Garst)
This Spring, the planners of the conference are hosting a Share the Fun event for Saturday night. These will not be judged--just an opportunity to have fun and to share your talents with others. Be sure to sign up for karaoke, singing, musical talent presentation, or any other talent that you might have. We look forward to a fun evening on Saturday night.
Registration forms and more information are located on the 4-H Public website under Volunteer Leaders meetings http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/volunteers.html#meet
(Bob Meadows)
Please consider this opportunity to support the 4-H Centers by checking the box marked "4-H educational centers," and indicating the amount that you wish to donate. In addition, please share this information with your 4-H volunteers, 4-H supporters, and friends of 4-H in your unit.
For more information, contact Barry Garst at bgarst@vt.edu or (540) 231-6372.
(Barry Garst)
(Mark Wahlberg)
Seventh Annual Youth Conservationist Program
Old Gjerpen Farm is pleased to announce the Seventh Annual Youth Conservationist Program (YCP) Breeds participating in the YCP include: Karakul, Coopworth, Leicester Longwool, Clun Forest, Hog Island, Scottish Blackface, Tunis, Cotswold, Jacob and Lincoln Longwool, Merino
Objectives: The purpose in giving a lamb to an aspiring shepherd is to create an awareness of the importance of preserving heritage breeds and to help others to:
Applicant Requirements: Youth applicants must meet the following requirements.
**Be 12-18 years old If selected,
** be present to receive the ewe at the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival (MS&WF) May 2,
**Agree to exhibit the ewe at least twice in 2004 at:
**Agree to breed the ewe to a registered ram.
**Agree to either use the lamb's first fleece to personally make a woolen item or sell the fleece to a spinner, felter, or weaver.
**Submit a one to two-page typed project report, with pictures, to the donor breeder by April 30, 2005
Schedule for YPC 2004
Applications from interested youth must be mailed by April 2, 2004 to
Elaine Ashcraft,
46118 CR 58
Coshocton, Ohio
Applications must include: home phone number (and an e-Mail address if available) and:
**Describe yourself and your experiences with animals;
**Explain your interest in sheep; and
**Answer the question:
³Why I would like to help preserve a heritage breed?
The Application should indicate if they wish to be considered for a particular breed or any of the eight participating breeds.
Applications selected to receive a ewe will be notified of their selection by April 22, 2004 Lamb presentation at the MF&WF (Howard County FairGrounds, MD) on May 2, to applicants (accompanied by a Parent)
(Mark L Wahlberg)
(Mark Wahlberg)
(Curtis Novak)
(Curtis Novak)
(Curtis Novak)
(Curtis Novak)
To get a general idea of who will be attending this year, would you please email the number of 4-Hers from your unit who will attend 4-H Day at the Capitol, as well as the county or city your 4-H groups represent. This will assist with shamrock delivery to legislators. Send information to jhairsto@vsu.edu
I have also been receiving questions about the age group that 4-H Day at the Capitol targets. Typically, this event is recommended for junior high school age youth and older. Although, throughout the years, there have been many middle school age youth who have attended as well. That is certainly acceptable. These individuals have a clearer understanding of how government works and may be a little more interested in the process than elementary school youth.
(Jewel E. Hairston)
(Celia Ray Hayhoe, Family Financial Management Extension Specialist)
(Celia Ray Hayhoe, Family Financial Management, Extension Specialist)
(Kathleen Stadler)
I attended the weekend last year as one of the adults and found the weekend terrific for the kids. The weekend program was educational and yet blended fun and the beauty of the mountains at Graves Mountain. Should you have any questions about the weekend, registration or logistics, please feel free to call me (757) 294-5215 or the coordinator of the weekend, Mr. Hugh Harris at (804) 281-1452 or email hugh.harris@sscoop.com
Letter -- PDF
(Billie Jean Elmer)
This is the premier conservation leadership school for Virginia youth, now in its 58th year. Professional foresters and wildlife biologists who donate their time teach campers. Any young person with an interest in the out-of-doors should be encouraged to attend. A 4-H leader, Extension Agent, or other youth development worker must recommend campers. Most campers will automatically receive a $100 scholarship provided by the many conservation organizations that support this event. The best way to recruit campers is through personal contact. It is a great self-esteem builder when an adult recommends a young person this way.
Information about Holiday Lake Forestry Camp can be viewed at: http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/environment/camp/
(Jeff Kirwan.)
You will also find information and registration materials for the February Instructor Certification at Holiday Lake 4-H Center, the March Instructor Certification at Airfield 4-H Center, the Virginia 4-H BB Gun/Air Rifle Match, and Shooting Education Camp.
Please forward this information to your 4-H Shooting Education Leaders and Coaches.
If you'd like to nominate 4-H Shooting Education Instructors from your unit to attend the Northeast Region 4-H Shooting Sports Workshop in Pennsylvania (May 16 - 21, 2004), let me know and I will send you an application. After attending the workshop in PA, your volunteers could then certify other instructors in your unit or district. They would also become members of the State 4-H Training Team.
If your local 4-H Shooting Education Club is hosting an event in the upcoming year and they'd like to promote it on the Virginia 4-H Shooting Education Website, let me know.
( Jinx Baney, Coordinator)
First-time participants and coordinators may register at a cost of $75.00, which includes supplies, meals, and lodging for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Or, if lodging is not necessary, first-time participants and coordinators may register at a cost of $55.00 which includes supplies and meals for Friday through Sunday. Current 4-H Shooting Sports Instructors may register at a cost of $55.00 which includes supplies, meals, and lodging for Saturday and Sunday. If lodging is not necessary, current instructors may register for $45.00 that covers the cost of supplies and meals for Saturday and Sunday.
All interested individuals should contact Airfield 4-H Center at (757) 899-4901 or the 4-H representative at the local Virginia Cooperative Extension office to request registration information. The registration deadline for participants is March 5, 2004. Airfield 4-H Center is located near Wakefield, mid way between Suffolk and Petersburg.
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services, or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the 4-H Department, Airfield 4-H Center, at (757) 899-4901 during the business hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to discuss accommodations 30 days prior to the event.
(Joy Branch)
(Jeff Kirwan)
Virginia is hosting the National Contest for this event July 28-August 1, 2004. Any agent or volunteer who would like to help during the week of the contest should contact me at 540/245-5750 or jamercer@vt.edu.
If you have any adults (volunteers or agents) who would like training on this program, please let me know and we will try to arrange training for coaches some time this winter. I encourage you to send volunteers, agents, and youth interested in natural resources to the 4-H Natural Resources Weekend, January 16-18 at Holiday Lake 4-H Center. Information on this event will be in the November state 4-H Newsletter.
(Jenny Mercer)
Winner in the State Contest will go on to compete at the National Contest. Check out the American Beekeeping Federations website at www.ABFnet.org to view the 2003 National Contest winning essays. Last year's Virginia state winner: Renee Bender,
Send 2004 Essay's to Sandra Fisher, Southwest Virginia 4-H Educational Center, 25236 Hillman Hwy. Abingdon, VA 24210. If you have questions or need more information about this opportunity, please contact your local Extension Agent or me at the above address or email safishe3@vt.edu.
(Sam Fisher)
The combined resources of the National Wildlife Federation and the Junior Master Gardener Program along with the valuable input from pilot teachers and students across the country have helped to shape "Wildlife Gardener" into an integrated, engaging, and one-of-a-kind experience for kids.
As Wildlife Gardeners, children will:
Go to this website for more information: http://www.k2demo.com/jmg/index.k2?did=6545
The curriculum will be available on March 1, 2004 with pre-orders being promoted now.
(Joseph R. Hunnings)
We are now soliciting nominations for national groups of the month for 2004. If you are interested in nominating a group here is what we need:
(Joe Hunnings)
The 4-H collaboration with Space Camp continues as well. Visit the 4-H Aerospace Education web site at http://www.aces.edu/dept/4Haero/ and click the 4-H Missions in Space link for more information. The 2004 rate for the 3-day Pathfinder camp program is $285 per person for 4-H groups (any group of youth may attend as a 4-H group as long as it is coordinated through 4-H). There are also less costly 2-day, 1-night programs. Hundreds of youth are participating in these programs each year and we look forward to having some of your groups attend as well. Contact me for more information.
Another opportunity exists with the National Congress on Aviation and Space Education (NCASE). This conference is held each year and is promoted by the Civil Air Patrol. It is the premier education conference for aviation and space and is open to Extension Educators. Go to the conference web site for more information (http://cap.gov/events/ncmain.html ). Registration at this time is only $99 per person.
(Ron Sanderson)
Virginia Tech faculty & staff are encouraged to use the payroll deduction contribution plan to help provide the support for 4-H programs. Evan a $5, $10 or other contribution each pay period from us provides funding to support mini-grants, youth trips to State or National 4-H Congress, volunteer leader support, or other important 4-H areas of interest. Consider filling out the Virginia Tech Faculty/Staff Payroll Deduction Contribution Form. Our support for the betterment of 4-H youth is much needed.
(Bob Meadows)
(Cindy Barnett, Executive Director, VA 4-H Foundation)
2003 Virginia 4-H Statistical Profile
191,645 Members
15,632 Adult & Teen Volunteers
28,155 Attended 4-H Camps
(Residential and Day Camps)
For a complete review go to the following website. http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/about.html#stats
(Robert Ray Meadows)
(Bob Meadows, Director, 4-H)
(Billie Cline)
WHAT YOUNG ADULTS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MONEY Http://Www.Ext.Vt.Edu/Niemoney/
VIRTUAL FOREST Http://Www.Ext.Vt.Edu/Resources/4h/Virtualforest/
PINE TREE SEEDING INFORMATION Http://Www.Ext.Vt.Edu/Resources/4h/Environment/Pineseed/
NATIONAL JUNIOR HORTICULTURE ASSOCIATION WEBSITE Http://Www.Njha.Org/
I DARE YOU website http://www.ayf.com
4H LIVESTOCK EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/livestock/index.html
4H HORSE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/horse/index.html
V T BLOCK & BRIDLE EVENTS http://www.apsc.vt.edu/clubs/BlockandBridle/WebPage/bb1.html
You can also read more about STEP at the Water Center's Website, www.vwrrc.vt.edu (click on "Education," then "STEP"). (Alan Raflo, STEP Assistant Director, Virginia Water Resources Research Center, 23 Agnew Hall (0444) Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-5463 araflo@vt.edu
Microsoft
Over the next five years, more than $1 billion will be distributed by this software giant to assist disadvantaged communities in building community technology centers. The goal is to boost technological literacy at the local level. Each center will be open to the public; be informal and welcoming; have a strong leadership base; hire approachable, qualified staff or volunteers; work toward a clear social benefit; use relevant curriculum; and have well-maintained and up-to-date computer equipment, peripherals, and connectivity.
Deadline(s): None
Eligibility: Nonprofits, school-based programs operating after school hours (evenings & weekends), and organizations that are government funded and operated.
Contact: Internet: www.microsoft.com/mscorp/citizenship/giving/apply/guidelines.asp
Daily Points of Light
This awards program was introduced in 1998 to honor people and organizations that are engaged in exemplary volunteer work and community service. Awards are made in six areas: continuing relationships with caring people, safe communities, a healthy start for a healthy future, quality education for all, opportunities for young people to serve, and community mobilization. Nominations may be made by letter or on an official nomination form.
Deadline(s): Nominations are accepted throughout the year - selections are made quarterly, with deadlines on February 15, May 1, August 1, and November 1.
Eligibility: Individuals, groups, organizations, families, businesses, or labor unions actively engaged in volunteer service aimed at domestic or international problem solving.
Contact: Points of Light Foundation, 1400 I Street, NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 2005-2208, (202)729-8184; Fax: (202)729-8100; E-mail: plyi@pointsoflight.org; Internet: www.pointsoflight.org
American Honda Foundation
Grants are provided by this foundation in the areas of math, science , the environment, technology, and youth job training.
Deadline(s): February 1, May 1, and August 1, 2004.
Eligibility: K-12 educational institutions, accredited higher education institutions, community colleges and vocational or trade schools, other scientific and education-related non-profits, tax-exempt organizations and gifted student programs.
Contact: American Honda Foundation, 1919 Torrance Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90501, Mail Stop 100-1W-5A, (301)781-4090; Fzx: (301)781-4270; Internet: www.hondacorporate.com/community/index.html
Dreyer's Foundation
This ice cream maker provides support for youth and K-12 public education programs. Projects should promote excellence in young people and establish high expectations.
Deadline(s): Requests for more than $1,000 should be submitted prior to April 15, 2004. Requests for less than $1,000 and requests for ice cream products and gift certificates or auction items are reviewed monthly.
Eligibility: Youth-serving organizations and K-12 public education in communities Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream, Inc. has operating facilities.
Dreyer's Foundation, 5929 College Avenue, Oakland, CA 94618, (510)450-4586; Fax: (510)601-4400; Internet: www.dreyersinc.com/dreyersfoundation
Target
Each of these discount stores is authorized to make Arts in Education Grants with its community. The goal is to provide projects that will create opportunities for students to explore, experience, and create visual art, music and drama.
Deadline(s): February 1, 2004.
Eligibility: Contact your local Target store for details.
Contact: Internet: www.target.com or visit your local Target store for guidelines and an application.
National Endowment for Financial Education
Programs providing educational support to the public--- including young people and members of underserved, low-income groups - on how to better manage their personal financed may consider applying for funding from this grant provider. Projects should encourage personal savings and investment as a means to financial security. The average grant is $50,000.
Deadline(s): February 3, 2004
Eligibility: Organizations that are classified as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)3 of the IRS Code and whose proposed projects are designed to increase knowledge about personal finances.
Contact: Marilyn Canfield, National Endowment for Financial Education, 5299 DTC Boulevard, Suite 1300, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, (303)224-3534; Fax: (303)220-0838; E-mail: mhc@nefe.org;
Internet: www.nefe.org
Allstate Foundation
This foundation supports national and local programs in the following areas: safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic impowerment. This year, the foundation plans to invest more that $14 million in programs that share its focus.
Deadline: None
Eligibility: Nonprofits
Contact: Executive Director, The Allstate Foundation, 2775 Sanders Road, Suite N4, Northbrook, IL 60062-6172, (847)402-5502; E-mail: allfound@allstate.com; Internet: www.allstate.com/community/PageRender.asp?Page=main.htm
Janus Foundation
Funding provided by this foundation is awarded for two initiatives: At-Risk Youth Through Education and Community Service and Volunteerism. The At-Risk Youth initiative provides support for projects serving at-risk youth within a community through educational initiatives, demonstrating the capacity to make a long-term impact on the youth they serve. The Community Service initiative encourages community well-being, development, and social activism.
Deadline(s): None
Eligibility: Nonprofits
Contact: Janus Foundation, 100 Fillmore Street, Denver, CO 80206, (303)333-3863; E-mail: janusfoundation@janus.com
McKenzie Foundation
Four different initiatives are supported through this foundation: early childhood development; education; the environment; and arts and culture. Priority is given to creative projects that encourage excellence and personal development and can be used as models.
Deadline(s): None. Letters of inquiry may be submitted online.
Eligibility: Nonprofits with 501(c)3 status.
Contact: Kathryn H. Smith, Executive Director, McKenzie Foundation, 114 John Street, Greenwich, CT 06831, (203)861-7525; Fax: (203)861-8526; Internet: www.mckenziefoundation.us
Southern Poverty Law Center
Two grant programs are offered by this funder to support initiatives that work to fight hate and promote tolerance among the nation's youth. Mix it Up provides one-time grants for $250 to support youth-directed activist projects that identify, question, and cross social boundaries in schools and communities. Visit www.tolerance.org/teens/grants.jsp for additional information. Teaching Tolerance provides funding of up to $2,000 each to teachers seeking to implement tolerance and youth activism projects in their schools or greater communities. For additional information, visit www.tolerance.org/teach/expand/gra/guide.jsp
Deadline(s): None
Eligibility: Mix it Up: groups demonstrating youth leadership, collaborative efforts among disparate groups, and extensive future plans (beyond the funded project).
Teaching Tolerance: K-12 teachers seeking to implement tolerance and youth activism projects in their schools or greater communities.
Contact: Attn: The Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104, (334)956-8200; Fax: (334)956-8488.
Rosie's For All Kids Foundation
Focusing on economically disadvantaged and at-risk youth and their families, this foundation provides grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 each. Awards are provided for center-based childcare, afterschool, education, and other youth programs, particularly those focused on low-income urban areas.
Deadline(s): None for the initial letter of intent, which may be submitted by e-mail or regular mail.
Eligibility: Nonprofits providing childcare, early education, and other programs for at-risk and economically disadvantaged children in underserved communities.
Contact: Rosie's For All Kids Foundation, Grant Review Committee, PO Box 225, Allendale, NJ 07401; E-mail: grants@forallkids.org; internet: www.forallkids.org.
Director's Letter
Calendar of Events
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