4-H doesn't stop for a global pandemic

Livestock projects, quilting class, livestock judging practice, cake decorating are all activities in a normal 4-H members schedule, and through the power of technology, that has remained a constant for Wyoming 4-H members during this time of global pandemic amidst the COVID-19 outbreak.

One of the 4-H program mission mandates is mastery. 4-H is an experiential learning program that incorporates a “learn by doing” approach.

In that regard, this time at home can be beneficial for 4-H projects. The Wyoming 4-H program has created daily lists of virtual projects that members across the state can participate in online.

The programs range from livestock judging practice and contests to baking and a plethora of projects in-between. Crook County 4-H members are participating in virtual quilt class, virtual livestock judging practice and virtual dog show practice.

Other members have entered virtual livestock shows and are competing nationally in opportunities they normally wouldn’t. Dawn Sanchez, Wyoming 4-H Livestock Specialist says, “Having online animal opportunities gives kids a valuable resource and learning tool, as well as a way to keep them connected to other members.”

Crook County 4-H members start their beef projects in the fall. The time at home over the past two months has given them extra time to work with their animals and have them really gentle.

The warm weather has provided opportunities for long walks and baths for the animals. Swine, sheep and goat projects started this spring with an ownership deadline of June 1.

The Crook County Fair has promised a show and a sale, maybe not the same as always, but there will be an opportunity to showcase their projects. Static projects, the projects that are hand-made, such as visual arts, leathercraft, food and nutrition, woodworking and so on, will also be showcased during the fair.

Video tutorials and online classes are keeping members involved. The Extension Office has materials that are available to youth. While the office is not open to the public currently, there is still the curbside supply pickup or a mail option.

The Crook County 4-H program and University of Wyoming Extension is working to keep services running as close to normal as possible. For information on virtual learning opportunities offered by Wyoming 4-H, visit http://www.wyoming4h.org/4hopps or follow Crook County Extension on Facebook.

If you have questions or projects that you would like to offer virtually to members, please reach out to the Extension Office at [email protected].