As youth get older they get busier. There are school functions, after school functions, extracurricular activities, jobs, friends and sometimes just hanging out. There are of course the less desirable choices as well. By offering the availability of the Teen Leaders group we are able to offer some flexibility for youth participation. Our Teen Leaders group has at least 6 members that would not have stayed involved in 4-H had the Teen Leaders group not been available to them. We are fortunate to be able to change with the times to adapt to the changing needs of youth.

A 4-H Alumni attending a university in Missouri recently applied for a Residential Assistant position at her dormitory which is a highly sought after position because there are so few available and she stated that because of what she has learned in 4-H including teambuilding, communication and leadership skills, she received the position for the following semester. She is even hoping to start a collegiate chapter at this university in the fall. She wants to give back to the program that has helped her so much through her years as a youth.

4-H programs empower youth to reach their full potential while working and learning in partnership with caring adults. Volunteers are the key to outreach by MU Extension 4-H youth development programs. Youth and adult volunteers are recruited and retained by providing educational resources, training, appropriate supervision and opportunities for growth and recognition.

The synergy of effective past and present programs, dedicated volunteers, and spirited youth will only continue to enforce our vision of a world in which both youth and adults learn, grow, and work together as a catalysts for positive change.