Cooperative Extension programs are called to understand local needs and participants through stakeholder engagement to develop educational programs.   The purpose of this course and experience is to help an Association meet the needs assessment requirement for 4-H Youth Development – whether it be through guiding a formal advisory committee or informal advisory process.  

The process and supporting information are intended to guide analysis of current 4-H programs and planning for future direction.  The topics within this course are designed to assist CCE Associations in the process of reviewing and evaluating current 4-H program context and opportunities.  Content is included that describes the youth development goals and values to help align needs, ideas, and the strengths of the 4-H Youth Development program.   

The course and parallel local meetings could be utilized in any situation where the timing is right for planning and may be particularly helpful as an association seeks to meet the accreditation requirement for advisory committees, to an Association in a leadership transition, or in the early stages of a strategic/program planning process.