Objectives: This initiative focuses on: 1. Illustrating the process implemented in Grand County, Utah for engaging with Latino and Native American families and youth to successfully establish a youth programming (4-H). 2. Showing how program growth is possible through cultural adaptation of 4-H materials and resources, outreach, and community connections. This work was informed by and grounded on the use of adapted conceptual models, cultural belonging programming, and state collaboration.

Methods: 1. Implementation of an adapted conceptual framework model focused on the Guiding Principles of Latino and Native American Youth-Serving Organizations. 2. Execution of Utah State University's Cultural Belonging (CUBE) program to carry out culturally relevant adaptations, internal diversity training, state 4-H coordination, and assessment of effective community outcomes. 3. Use of best practices for active parental involvement, cultural immersion, and strategic youth outreach through coordination with schools and community organizations.

Outcomes: Three months of outreach resulted in the involvement of 100 Latino families. In Grand County, Latino youth participation surged from 6 in 2020-2023 to 25 in January 2024, reflecting a growth percentage of approximately 300%. Native American population raised awareness of their reach and increased enrollment from 3 participants to 15.

Impact: Establishing a new Latino 4-H club in Grand County involved collaboration with organizations eager to serve Latino youth and families but lacking cultural competency. Through this effort, Grand County Extension and the 4-H program increased the visibility of educational programs

Authors:
Mariajose Velasco Burgos, Utah State University, United States
Celina Wille, Utah State University, United States
Craig Dart, Utah State University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Maria José Velasco Burgos, from Manta, Ecuador, is an Assistant Professor at Utah State University (USU) Extension Cultural Belonging Director and CBH co-director

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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