Search For Excellence in 4-H Programming

Jones, Madaline*¹, , Lepsch, Hannah², , McGill, Bailey³, , Radford, Joanna⁴,
¹ Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development, NC Cooperative Extension - Yadkin County Center, YADKINVILLE, NC, 27055
² Extension Agent, NC Cooperative Extension - Yadkin County Center, Yadkinville, NC, 27055
³ Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development, NC Cooperative Extension - Surry County Center, Dobson, NC, 27017
⁴ Extension Agent, Agriculture and Natural Resources, NC Cooperative Extension - Surry County Center, Dobson, NC, 27017

The agents in Yadkin and Surry counties collaborated to hold a virtual “Pollination Station” Summer Fun program for 4-H youth. The program aimed to give youth a glimpse into the world of pollinators, fun guided activities, and interaction with other 4-Hers, community members, and Extension agents. The topics covered included pollination, the importance of pollinators, honeybees and beekeeping, and conservation of pollinator habitat. The information was delivered via educational videos, hands-on activities, and written lessons housed on a website platform. Prior to starting the program, participants went to their local Extension office to pick up a supplies “kit” for completing the lesson activities. Youth were able to communicate online with the instructors, 4-H agents and classmates, which helped give them a sense of normalcy when strict Covid-19 gathering limits were in place. The activities were self-paced to be completed over a period of two months. Twenty-eight youth participated, all reporting that the program measurably increased their learning and interest in pollinators, and was overall a great success.