The initiative to engage Latino youth and families in the 4-H Youth Development Program, managed by the University of California, has just issued its first year report.

Through qualitative questionnaires and focus group interviews, we analyzed experiences of six new bilingual and bicultural program staff, hired specifically to implement youth development programming to reach Latino youth. Staff reported a steep learning curve, with competing demands to build relationships, engage youth and show results. Lessons learned may help shape activities that other youth development programs may consider in similar efforts.

"Staff emphasized that getting to know the community and building relationships were the most important...