The Estill County Clover Press
October 2023 Edition
4-H Youth DevelopmentView Newsletter
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The Estill County Clover Press
October 2023
4-H can help find that spark
Source: Rachel Guidugli, agriculture extension director assistant
In a world full of talents, interests and qualities, everyone has a unique inner fire that gives them joy, purpose, and direction. 4-H calls these "sparks" representing passion, energy and self-identity, not just hobbies. Sparks can come from playing a guitar or advocating for social justice, starting a journey of growth and change.
Sparks are what motivate us to pursue our passions. They are skills, talents, interests, and unique qualities that resonate with us. The virtuoso violinist, environmentalist, and empathetic listener all have sparks that fuel their work. These inner sparks illuminate our lives and lead to self-discovery.
4-Hers have many opportunities to explore and find their passions:
- Community Clubs: youths can join diverse projects. They find sparks by trying new things and spending time with like-minded people.
- Teens as Teachers: Older teens teach younger children their passions. This experience develops leadership and engages both parties.
- 4-H Special Interest (SPIN) Clubs: these clubs allow children to explore their passions and meet others who share them.
- After-school programs: introduces members to different interests so they can quickly explore them. This flexibility sparks curiosity and helps them find their passion.
Sparks shape lives and society, not just personal preferences.
- Driving Growth: sparks inspire people to learn and overcome obstacles. A spark may help someone overcome public speaking fears or learn new technology, building resilience.
- Driving Contribution: sparks often lead to community-beneficial actions. A musician may bring joy to nursing home residents. Social justice may lead to civic engagement, and basketball may inspire coaching younger children, creating a positive cycle.
- Building Connections: sparks foster like-minded peer connections. They connect youth enthusiasts, building support networks and camaraderie. These connections support knowledge sharing, skill development and personal growth.
- Building Protective Factors: pursuing sparks motivates academic success, healthy choices and risk-aversion. People become more self-aware and responsible, avoiding actions that could harm them or others.
- Fostering Positive Adjustment: sparks boost self-esteem, optimism, and purpose. This helps children find their place in the world, boosting their confidence and sense of belonging.
- Fostering a Thriving Orientation: sparks create a thriving orientation. Youths gain confidence, competence and character. They help their community, amplifying their sparks.
Sparks are the foundation of a happy life! They help people grow, contribute, connect and confidently navigate the world's complexities. Society nurtures sparks to create a generation of enthusiastic, engaged and empowered youths ready to change the world.
More information on how 4-H can help them with their sparks is available at the Estill County Extension office.
Estill County 4-H Horticulture Club
For Estill County Youth 4-H age 9-18
- Horticulture Club will meet once a month at the Estill County Extension Office (4th Monday of each month at 5p.m.)
- Participants will learn the basics of horticulture: from planning, starting seeds in the new greenhouse, to completing 4-H State Fair eligible projects
Sign-ups start October 2nd
Call the Estill County Extension Office at 606-723-4557 to sign up. Limited spots available! Meetings will be held at the Estill County Extension Office, 76 Golden Court, Irvine, KY.
Estill County 4-H Photography Club
For Estill County Youth 4-H age 9-18
First meeting will be Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Meeting starts at 4:00 p.m. and will be held at the Estill County Extension Office, 76 Golden Court, Irvine, KY.
Call 606-723-4557 to sign-up and request an enrollment form.
Estill County 4-H Goat Club
For Estill County Youth 4-H age 9-18
First meeting will be held Monday, October 2nd
Meeting starts at 4:00 p.m. and will be held at the Estill County Extension Office, 76 Golden Court, Irvine, KY.
Call 606-723-4557 to sign-up and request an enrollment form. You do not have to own goats to participate in this club.
Estill County 4-H Horse Club
For Estill County Youth 4-H age 9-18
First meeting will be Thursday, October 5th
Meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. and will be held at the Estill County Extension Office, 76 Golden Court, Irvine, KY.
Call 606-723-4557 to sign-up and request an enrollment form.
See the attached PDF for the rest of the October newsletter.
