- Author: Laura Snell
Hello All,
I just wanted to give a little update on the 2024 DG Colt Challenge. This is our fifth year completing this program. There are 19 youth from 14 counties in California and Southern Oregon. This year's challenge is open to new 2024 trainers and all returning trainers and horses from the past five years.
The 2024 Colt Challenge competition will be held June 22nd in Alturas, CA at the Junior Livestock Showgrounds on the corner of 8th and Nagle. We will start with registration at noon and classes will start at 1pm. There will be three classes like years past, obstacle, halter, and showmanship. For returning horses, who are over three, there will be an option for equitation on horseback and to complete the obstacle course on horseback.
Video Challenge
Each April we have held a video challenge for youth to show us how far they have come with their horses. This was a great activity during Covid but has continued to be a highlight and opportunity to share more about our youth and their horses with partners and interested parties. Videos were evaluated on 4 criteria: Creativity, Horse Behavior, Trainer Ability, and Grooming. The winners this year are below, please enjoy watching their videos. Thank you for your support of this program and the unique opportunity it provides for youth in California. Please feel free to share this with other contacts that may be interested in the success of this program as well.
Third Place Olivia and Chili, San Luis Obispo County – Creston 4-H Club
Second Place Gracelyn and Wren, Shasta County – Foothill High School FFA
"Wren and the $1M Halter" (can only be watched on YouTube)
First Place Merideth and Cosmo, San Diego County – Surfside 4-H
Mustang Camp, June 28-29 in Susanville
This year we are also hosting a Mustang Camp in Susanville June 28-29th to reach youth who want to learn about wild horses but are maybe not in a situation to take a wild horse home yet. This is part of a national grant funded by BLM with a group of west-wide extension agents. Registration closes June 14th.
Thank you for your continued support of this program,
Laura
- Author: Steven Worker
Guidebook and workshop series helps 4-H project leaders learn about their roles, responsibilities, lesson planning, making learning engaging, and working with youth leaders.
California 4-H relies on and recognizes adult 4-H volunteer educators who bring knowledge, experience, and passion to work with youth. Adult 4-H volunteer educators who provide learning experiences (as project leaders) are one of the most important influences on youth development and educational outcomes. California 4-H committed to preparing our volunteers to facilitate high quality youth development and learning experiences to 4-H youth members.
An Update to the 4-H Project Leaders Guide
In August 2023, the UC 4-H Volunteer Educators' Guide: For Those Facilitating 4-H Educational Experiences, authored by a team of 4-H Advisors, was published as a 40-page peer reviewed publication. It was a needed revision to the 2007 4-H Project Leaders' Digest, in order to incorporate the new 4-H Thriving Model of Youth Development, and other emerging research on education.
The guide is useful for 4-H volunteers in community club projects, afterschool club programs, day camps, special interest (SPIN) clubs, teenagers-as-teachers programs, and other educational experiences. The guide provides an overview of the 4-H Youth Development Program, its mission and goals; key program content areas; best practices; volunteer expectations and support; and a look at the underlying science of youth development that support the 4-H approach.
Online Workshop Series for 4-H Project Leaders
In September/October 2023, the volunteer workgroup launched an online workshop series to help make the written guide “come alive” and support 4-H volunteers in meeting, sharing, and learning.
The entire series consists of 4, 2-hour sessions for a total of 8 hours. While the series is probably most beneficial to new 4-H volunteer educators, even those who have been project leaders for years have learned something new.
Thus far, 80 4-H volunteers from 30 counties have completed the 8-hour series! See the list of those who completed the 8-hour series (updated April 1, 2024).
We found statistically significant improvement in all learning objectives:
- Nurturing youth sparks, sense of belonging, and positive relationships with adults;
- Facilitating hands-on experiential education and planning your project;
- Working with all ages and abilities; and
- Creating effective youth-adult partnerships & working with youth leaders.
The sessions were valuable in helping 4-H volunteers strengthen their knowledge of important youth development and educational concepts needed to implement high quality 4-H learning experiences.
“What were the most important things you learned you plan to use in your 4-H projects?”
"I got some ideas on how to development better relationships with youth and ideas on how to help them find their sparks."
"I really appreciated all the very practical suggestions about how to actually strengthen the foundational components - there are several I will by trying out in or projects and meetings."
"I learned I can lean on the established material for youth development. Feeling supported in this new endeavor as I am new to this."
"Talking with other project leaders, and learning tips from more experienced leaders on how to engage youth."
"There is a project plan form after I planned my meetings completely. I will be printing the form and using it."
"Really great to learn more about the 4-H project plan. I've led projects for 5 years and this will be the first year I prepare one (a bit belatedly). Thank you!"
"I'm definitely sharing the project planning document with other project leaders in my club. This was a very helpful tool I was not aware of. Thank you!"
"The importance to have all ages being involved in the projects and allowing the older members teach the younger members."
"The characteristics and implication for activities for each age group presented nicely and I will consider this more in the project activities."
"How to tailor each project/project meeting to all the different age groups and learning abilities."
"Hart's Ladder (thinking how to move up to upper level would help me plan activities & project meetings). Leadership Competence Chart was wonderful."
"Give members more options to voice what they want to learn and how they can learn it. Give them more opportunities to lead and help in any way they can."
Fall 2024 Workshop Series for 4-H Project Leaders
The series is being offered again on Wednesdays in September 2024. Registration is now open! Register
- Author: Erica Pettey
Ten 4-H counties participated in the UC Davis College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Field Day on Saturday, March 2, 2024. The 4-H teams competed in contests on Vet Science and Light Horse Judging, as well as the State Qualifier for 4-H Livestock Judging.
Placer County 4-H - Livestock Judging Team
Placer County 4-H had 4-H youth competing in both the Senior and Junior age divisions. In the Junior Division, the Ophir 4-H club was represented by Gabby, Julia, and Cameron. In the Senior Division, the 2024 CA 4-H State Champion Livestock Judging team was led by Joey S., Gabriella, Moriah, and Ella from Ophir 4-H Club. Ella was Second Overall High Point Individual and Gabriella was Third Overall High Point Individual. Fellow Ophir 4-H member, Matt, also competed in the Senior Division as an individual. They are coached by project leader Liza Stefani and Lucus Delap from Chico State University. This hard-working and enthusiastic team qualified to represent California 4-H at a national 4-H livestock judging contest in the 2024-2025 program year. They are excited to travel to Denver, CO to compete in the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest held during the Western National Roundup in January 2025.
Merced County 4-H - Livestock Judging Team
The Merced County 4-H Livestock Judging team was split between the Junior and Senior age divisions. The Junior Team was led by Kai, Maysie, Anya, and Aubree from McSwain 4-H Club with Keira from Ballico 4-H Club competing as an individual in the Senior Division. This talented young group is coached by Leah Sanches and took home High Point banners in both age divisions. Kai earned High Point banners for Junior Individual Overall, Beef, and Goats/Sheep. Maysie was Third Overall High Point Junior. In the Senior Division, Keira earned individual awards for High Point Overall, Beef, Goats/Sheep, Swine, and Reasons.
San Mateo County 4-H "Team of Two"
The San Mateo County 4-H Livestock Judging “team of two” was led by Lucy and Fynn from the San Carlos Eaton Hills 4-H Club. They had a great day and were ranked second overall to earn a Reserve Champion Team banner. This small team did not have the required third member needed to qualify to represent California 4-H at a national competition this year.
“We are both from San Carlos Eaton Hills 4-H club in San Mateo County. We are very interested in animal science and love raising livestock. However, there are not many opportunities to get involved in agriculture or animal science where we live. This year, we decided to try livestock judging for the first time. We didn't know what to expect, but we ended up doing well and we learned a lot. Next year, we hope to find more people in our county to join a livestock judging project. We look forward to continuing with livestock judging and getting better for next year.” - written by Fynn and Lucy
Other counties that participated
San Luis Obispo County 4-H
The San Luis Obispo County 4-H team included Brooklyn and Josie in the Senior Division and Karis and Krew in the Junior Division. Karis was Second Overall Junior and High Point Junior in Reasons and Swine.
Sonoma County 4-H
The Sonoma County 4-H team included Trenton W. in the Senior division plus Ryan V., John J., Ryan S., and Bella C. in the Junior Division. The Sonoma County 4-H Junior Team was second place overall with their combined individual scores.
El Dorado County 4-H
The El Dorado County 4-H team included Rebeca R. and Shelby S. in the Senior Division and Emilee R. in the Junior Division.
Alameda County 4-H
The Alamedia County 4-H team included Makaela in the Junior Division and Kylie in the Senior Division.
Marin County 4-H
The Marin County 4-H team included Clare M. in the Senior Division and Frank M. in the Junior Division.
Yolo County 4-H was represented by Abigail B., Maxine C., and Addyson in the Junior Division.
Amador County 4-H youth in the Vet Science and Light Horse Judging contests
“Our Vet Science team placed 4th out of a huge number of teams and we were by far the youngest (ages 11, 13, 13, 15) next to all high school groups. Our Light Horse Judging member won all of the 4-H individual divisions with 1st and 2nds. No team placing since we didn't have a full team and were only allowed to compete as individuals.” - written by coach Kelsi Williams
Light Horse: Lily and Ama
Vet Science: Lexi, Saveah, Cecilia, and Haydin
Coach: Dr. Kelsi Williams
- Author: Samuel Belik
- Author: Erica Pettey
The 2024 Avian Bowl 4-H State Qualifier Contest was held during the Greater Society of Poultry Fanciers' Show at the Fresno Fairgrounds on Saturday, February 24, 2024.
The 2024 Avian Bowl State Champion Team is led by Zuzu H., Ean R., Samuel B., and Melanie S. from Ventura County 4-H. They were supported by their coach, Kitty Beckmann, and Teen Assistant Coach Ashley P.
From Tense Moments to Triumph
“My name is Samuel Belik. I am 14 years old. I started competing in avian bowl competitions when I was 9. I have played on several teams, most recently the Squabblers. This year was my first year to compete as a senior level avian bowler. After a long anticipated wait for the new manuals to come in the mail, my team worked for many weeks studying hard to prepare for the contest. We were feeling pretty nervous before the competition. After a pretty smooth competition, the game suddenly ended with the most nerve wracking round that I have ever played before"
"In the final round, on the final question of the game, my team was down 10 points. Even my coaches thought we would not be able to come back with just one 5 point question to go. Then Dr. Bradley asked the final question of the round, and the other team's captain managed to buzz in first. All seemed lost, but then she was unable to answer fast enough, giving my team a chance to tie up the game. My teammates Zuzu, Ean and I realized that if our teammate, Melanie, could answer this question, we could do better than tie the game and earn a last minute bonus question. On the other hand, not answering within seconds would lose us the entire game. I was attempting to count to three before buzzing in to give Melanie a chance at the buzzer. In a feat of teamwork, my teammates had the same thought, and Melanie came through and answered the question correctly, tying the game, and earning the bonus! We answered the bonus correctly as well and ended the game with a score of 20-30, ten points ahead instead of ten points behind. We had won!!"
"My teammates and I are very excited to be representing California at nationals in Louisville, Kentucky in November.” - Samuel
- Author: Eve Solana Roxane Dowdell
We celebrate the recipients of the 2023-2024 California 4-H Higher Education Scholarships.
You all are dedicated and passionate about pursuing academic or vocational education at a higher level. See the stupendous recipients below.
Dean Memorial Legacy Scholarship, $1,000
This scholarship is given to students pursuing any field of scholastic endeavor. Candidates are judged on how 4-H has influenced their future plans, their involvement with leadership and civic engagement experiences, and demonstrating a level of skill and knowledge in any project area. This scholarship fund is provided by Bob and Pat Dean, devoted 4-H supporters for nearly 40 years. Without children of their own, Bob and Pat considered the 4-H youth their children and use this scholarship to insure the future of their 4-H family.
Sudharsan Gopalakrishnan, Contra Costa County
Sudharsan graduated high school in 2023 and plans to study Computer Science at Harvey Mudd College. Sudharsan had a host of experiences in 4-H that cultivated his passion for engineering, robotics, and community service. In Sudharsan's own words, "through my extensive involvement in 4-H, I have not only honed my technical skills but also developed crucial leadership, teamwork, and project management abilities".
Rebekah McPeek, San Joaquin County
Rebekah graduated high school in 2023 and is studying animal science at Texas A&M University, Kingsville with the long-term goal of pursuing veterinary medicine. In Rebekah's words, "my 4-H experiences influenced me to want to become someone who advocates for the topics that I believe in and pursue a degree in the field of Agriculture. With [what] 4-H provided me, I am where I am today."
Clarissa Shane, San Joaquin County
Clarissa is currently pursuing her master's degree in Oral History at Columbia University. Clarissa attributes her interests in public speaking, activism, storytelling, and overall educational decisions to her experiences in the CA 4-H program. In Clarissa's own words, in 4-H, "I was able to identify my personal values such as respect and service as well as gain crucial communication skills through my involvement with other youth and adults in the local community."
Mabel W. Jacks Scholarship, $2,000
This scholarship is given to students pursuing any field of scholastic endeavor. The Mabel W. Jacks Endowment Fund is in memory of R.C. Jacks, an enthusiastic supporter of both 4-H and FFA.
Cody Dowdell, Stanislaus County
Cody is currently studying Electrical Engineering and Industrial Electronics at Modesto Junior College. Cody's passion for helping others through innovation and sustainability can be seen throughout his academic and 4-H careers. Not only has 4-H instilled confidence and courage in Cody, but it has "opened [his] eyes to many world needs and the out-of-the-box engineering careers that serve those needs".
Megna Nayar, Santa Clara County
Megan graduated high school in 2023 and is currently pursuing Economics at UC Santa Barbara. Throughout Megna's 4-H career, she developed skills in analytics, leadership, civic engagement, and particularly, equity literacy. These skills, and her toolbox of others, have equipped Megna with the "ability to make an impact in [her] field" and the passion to address "education, poverty, and more with an economic perspective".
Morgan Sweet, Madera County
Morgan graduated high school in 2023 and is studying Sports Business at Fresno State University. With a passion for sports, Morgan has been a leader since preschool. Morgan credits her leadership skills to her time in 4-H. In Morgan's words, "4-H has opened my eyes into many future possibilities" with a Business major.
Camille Thomason, Napa County
Camille graduated high school in 2023 and is finishing her first year at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt as a Business Administration major. As a 4-H Camp enthusiastic and former CA 4-H State Ambassador, Camille has had many opportunities to develop communication, event planning, and media literacy skills through her 4-H experiences. In Camille's own words, "all of these skills will help me in college and in my career. I am glad I had a chance to learn...by doing with 4-H."
Samarin Family Vocational Scholarship, $1,000
This scholarship is given to candidates who are enrolled or will be enrolled in a vocational/trade school or junior college vocational training program in the United States. Vocational education refers to organized educational programs that are directly related to the preparation of individuals for employment or for additional preparation for a career requiring education other than a baccalaureate or advanced degree.
Elisabeth Gage, Monterey County
Elisabeth is currently working towards her Journalism degree at Belmont University. Ever since Elisabeth was a little girl, she has loved to give speeches and perform, and her time in 4-H refined her public speaking skills. Now, thanks to the lifelong skills 4-H provided her, Elisabeth has "the confidence to speak in front of anyone or any size crowd".
We congratulate our 2023-2024 recipients.
Whether you are entering the higher education space for the first time or entering the masters degree program, you are a rock star! Keep up the good work and remember that your CA 4-H family is rooting for you!
Applications are open for 2025 Higher Education Scholarships
If you under the age of 25 years old and pursuing a higher education, consider applying for a California 4-H Higher Education Scholarship. Scholarships will be awarded in 2025. For more information about requirements and timelines, visit the 4-H Higher Education Scholarships page on the California 4-H Resource Center.
