In Ohio, 4-H professionals found that it is necessary to conduct market research to have an effective program. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training has been successful in strengthening the 4-H position in the marketplace. (JOW)

The notion that blue ribbons serve to increase the motivation and performance of 4-H youth may not always be true. Studies of the effect of such incentives give cause for reevaluation of the present reward structure in light of current 4-H philosophy. (SK)

Discusses a study of parental influence on their children's participation in youth organizations such as 4-H. (JOW)

The dropout of first-year 4-H Club members affects the achievement of program goals. Reenrollment rates can be increased if opportunities for member participation and recognition are provided early in the club year. (SK)

Addresses the implications of the Americans with Disabilities Act for 4-H programs, the benefits of mainstreaming youth with disabilities, and examples of 4-H project modifications enabling participation at Purdue University. (SK)

The 4-H program can be improved if Extension agents administer rather than conduct the program. This means that leaders will have to be well-recruited and trained, and take responsibility for conducting much of the program. (Author)

A Montana survey of 2,500 students' use of out-of-school time found that only 17% reported no involvement in out-of-school activities. 4-H participants were less likely to shoplift, steal, smoke cigarettes, ride with a drunk driver, or damage property. They were more likely to develop self-confidence and social competence, demonstrate leadership,…

A survey of Nebraska adults 10 to 20 years after their 4-H experience showed that 4-H activities provided opportunities for career exploration and selection and were helpful in preparing for adult roles. (SK)

Describes "4-H in the Schools," a cost-effective alternative for reaching youth at a time and place where their numbers are significant. Schools offer opportunities to reach a wide variety of youth or to target specific groups. (Author)

Alumni of 4-H animal science programs in New Jersey were surveyed (n=52). Participation had a positive influence on life skill development, especially "accepting responsibility." Experience with shows and judging was beneficial to public speaking/job interview skills. Although many were not in animal science careers, they enjoyed related…

This study showed that continuing and discontinuing volunteer 4-H Club leaders are significantly different in their geographical location, number of children in family, and number of children in family who have participated in 4-H. These variables may affect the volunteer's decision to continue serving as a 4-H Club leader. (Author/CT)

The purpose of this study was to identify the Ohio 4-H alumni's perceptions of the impact 4-H had on their career development. The 166 respondents (n=275) reported that 4-H affected the development of general employability competencies, but not job-seeking skills. (JOW)

The concept of a new family coordinator (someone to orient new families to the local 4-H programs and serve as a contact person for them) is examined. The training of this coordinator, the "New Family Handbook," and benefits of this new system are discussed. (CT)

A survey of 400 senior 4-H participants in Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico received 238 usable responses identifying the top three 4-H activities contributing to leadership development: holding office, teaching younger members, and fairs. Greatest involvement in leadership activities was in implementing and evaluating; few were involved in…

Data from a survey of 4-H Club leaders in Saskatchewan, Canada, were used to determine the effect of attendance at leadership training events on leaders' decisions to re-enroll or discontinue. It was found that involvement in 4-H activities, supported by leadership training, increased leaders' satisfaction and likelihood of re-enrolling. (MF)