The Pinckney Leadership program has been busy despite COVID-19. Since March, the program has begun three different programs to address the needs of our youth. We are making sure that youth leaders have the tools and resources they need to adjust to the “new normal”.
Fresh Fridays
The “Fresh Fridays” were a time that the program dedicated to motivate each other through this crisis, hear from amazing adult leaders, and most importantly, create a fun environment where everyone can continue to grow as leaders! Over the course of seven weeks, seventy-four youth leaders from twenty-four counties were represented during these virtual gatherings.
“I really appreciated having another space to go to, also in a way it was kind of like an event for me to get ready for and go to, thus helping me keep a structure to my life during these times.” – Youth Participant
“This is my first time being a part of the 4-H program, and I really enjoyed being a part of the Fresh Fridays!!!”- Youth Participant
Virtual Leadership Roundup
The SC 4-H Pinckney Leadership Conference hosted its first virtual Leadership Roundups this summer, aimed at providing a platform for students nationwide to gather and learn how they could continue to lead amidst the current challenges the country faces.
Mentor Groups
Although COVID-19 has changed a lot of the original summer plans, it also made the team aware of an untapped resource that they had right in front of them…technology! Due to the success of the “Fresh Friday” and the Virtual Leadership Roundup programs, they have recently started mentor groups within the program. These groups will give 4-H Pinckney Leaders the opportunity to learn and grow from other youth leaders, while also getting the opportunity to be mentored by adult leaders in the career field they may be interested in.
Submitted by: Rushawnda Olden, 4-H Pinckney Leadership Program Director
