September 21 –COVID-19 didn’t slow down summer programs for PVAMU’s 4-H department. Instead, it spurred quick-thinking innovation! Jr. Youth Leadership effortlessly switched from traditional face-to-face to virtual programming in its fourth year. Consequently, we were able to reach far beyond Harris, Waller, and Grimes Counties. Thirty-eight youth rising to grades six through eight residing in seven counties participated in the camp. This year’s theme was “The Journey to 2050: Sustainable Agriculture.” Campers spent three days learning about agriculture, grew plants in gloves, met an agricultural biotechnologist and veterinarian, and competed in a spoken word workshop that helped them express themselves about current events.
Participants from the 2019 Jr. Youth Leadership Lab.
Parents were excited to see their youth enjoying the program. L. Lewis responded, “Thank you all for giving my child something to smile about this summer. She truly enjoyed the virtual camp, and her plant is growing.” T. McGlory stated her “kids learned so much and now want seeds!” Another parent, A. Jerome, expressed appreciation for the entire university’s culture of making students a priority.
Youth evaluations at the end of the camp were also inspiring. At least 94% of participants are now more aware of STEM and agriculture careers, 88% learned to use their voice to make positive changes in their communities, and 64% are now interested in pursuing a STEM career (agriculture).
The parents’ gratitude and impact on youth made all the time and effort put into providing youth quality summer programs amid the pandemic worthwhile. So much fun and intentionality went into planning the first virtual Jr. Youth Leadership Camp. The PVAMU 4-H and Youth Development staff is looking forward to pushing the envelope of excellence in this new era of virtual learning!
Cynthia Pierfax
Cynthia Pierfax,
4-H and Youth Development Program Specialist
cmpierfax@pvamu.edu
(936) 261-5028