Authoring Tool: Canva

Target Audience: Youth in grades 7th-12th

The Issue: A need existed for an updated leadership manual for the LaPorte County 4-H Junior Leader program. I was tasked with designing a new manual for teens to navigate leadership development journey throughout the year. The Junior Leader program also struggled to keep teens engaged and motivated to get involved in higher leadership opportunities besides their local clubs.

Solution: I created an incentive level program for teen 4-H members to become more involved in leadership opportunities at local, county, state, regional, and national levels. The portfolio includes an activity chart, reflection questions, and a resume. Teens who chose to complete the portfolio are able to gain introspection, communication, and career readiness skills.

Result: Since its 2017 inception, 30 teens have reached the bronze pin level, 15 have achieved the silver hat level, and 3 reached the gold embroidered jacket level. The program has been adapted in the neighboring county of Porter with several youth achieving the gold leadership level within the first two years of adoption.

Award: National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals (NAE4-HYDP) Regional Communicator Award- Education Package (Individual)