A new Ohio 4-H initiative is connecting youth with an OSU Extension Signature program. Adding a Youth Flavor to Extension’s Signature Programs leverages peer education to increase awareness and interest in local foods among Ohio youth through 4-H teen leaders.
A committee of nine 4-H teens, advised by an interdisciplinary team of OSU Extension professionals, crafted five lesson plans about local foods. Next, 25 4-H teens from across Ohio were trained by the committee and equipped with lessons and a supply kit to deliver lessons in their home counties. A second training is planned to engage an additional 25 Ohio 4-H teens as trainers.
Lessons are available for free download at go.osu.edu/YouthFlavor
The project is funded through a 2015 OSU Extension Innovative Grant and the Patricia Kunz Brundige Youth Development Fund for Positive Youth Development.