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University of Minnesota Extension presents 4‑H participation goals, outreach plans
Summary
University of Minnesota Extension staff updated the county board on 4‑H participation numbers, growth and retention goals, school outreach and a statewide 'Beyond Ready' initiative to reach more youth by 2030.
University of Minnesota Extension educators presented an update on 4‑H programming in Kandiyohi County, reporting current enrollment, volunteer numbers and goals for program growth and retention.
The presentation matters because Extension’s outreach and volunteer base supports youth development and links to school-based programming, workforce-readiness initiatives and community partners across the county.
Regional director Tricia Sheehan and Kandiyohi County extension educators Beth Dietz and Kylie Sherrod told the board the current 4‑H year runs Oct. 1–Sept. 30 and provided enrollment figures: “we have 11 chartered clubs and 98 volunteers … within those clubs, we have 227 youth participating,” Sherrod said. They said additional school and outreach programs reached 345 youth this year.
Extension described program goals including a 10% enrollment increase for the year, a retention goal to keep 70% of Cloverbud participants (kindergarten through third grade) and work to diversify membership by partnering with five more community organizations. Sherrod said the county will use site-based, after-school and project clubs (for example, a shooting-sports project club) to reach youth who cannot travel to traditional community clubs.
Speakers framed the work within a statewide campaign called Beyond Ready aimed at preparing youth for work and life; Extension staff said a national goal of reaching 10 million youth by 2030 influences local programming adjustments and more school-based outreach. Commissioners asked about outreach to underserved communities; educators said current work in Wilmar public schools and programs such as Kids Connection at the mall are part of that effort.
The board thanked Extension staff and encouraged continued school partnerships and volunteer recruitment. No board action was taken; presenters were invited to return next year with progress updates.
