Overview
Dr. David Campbell in his book, If You Don't Know Where You're Going, You'll Probably End Up Somewhere Else, says that "If you want something good to happen, make room for tomorrow."
We want good things to happen in our 4-H Club. But good things only happen if we take the time and make the effort to carefully plan our 4-H Club's yearly program.
Simple observation has shown that in 4-H Clubs where families are excited about 4-H, where members and adults willingly volunteer to work and where members are eager to join, good planning has been the key to success.
Good 4-H Club program planning gives the incentive to the club as a whole and each of its individual members, leader and parents to strive "to make the best better."
What Is a Club Program Plan?
It is like a road map. It directs the actions toward a goal or destination. It is a written plan that considers the club's goals, activities, events and meetings. The 4-H Club program tells what the club is doing and when. It should also include who is responsible for carrying out each part of the program.
Why Do Club Program Planning?
The following are some reasons for having a year-long plan:
- meet people's needs and wants
- share commitment and responsibilities
- ensure a balanced but varied program
- provide for each member to feel important in the club
- give each member a specific job
- ensure ample preparation time
- keep date open for 4-H
- provide for maximum involvement
- provide for better communication
- learn to cooperate and compromise
- learn how to plan
- learn to recruit volunteers
- avoid chaos
- encourage members to look forward to meetings
- make certain that meetings do occur
- give the club direction
- involve parents in program
- prepare resources in advance of meetings
A good 4-H Club will:
- provide a role for each member, leader and parent
- meet the needs of each member, leader and parent
- share responsibilities among all members, leaders and parents
- inspire a balanced club program between learning, work and fun
- provide for better communications
- help with cooperation between members, parents and leaders
- helps members, leaders and parents to learn and/or improve planning skills
- avoid calendar conflicts
Six Easy 4-H Club Program Planning Steps
Step 1 -- Select Planning Committee
Remember that when your plan is completed, turn it into the Extension office. For more information, please contact your local Extension office.