presented by patricia dawson oregon state university extension service

Presented ByPatricia Dawson

Oregon State University Extension Service

Open discussion and dialogue Provide key components and best-

practices for Hispanic audience programming

Identify areas to focus on when establishing programs for new audiences

Share examples of community partnerships that are essential for program success

Latino Population is growing at rapid rate.

Address critical community issues

Bring new ideas, value and dimension to programs.

An increase of 56% from 2000

Organized in 1990 Evolved from adult

directed to student advisory board

Addresses issues and needs as identified by advisory board

Expanded grade level, outreach efforts & community engagement

Strengthen lives of Hispanic families

Promote academic success

Support youth leadership

Encourage community engagement

Grants Corporate

Sponsors School Enrichment

Grants Private Donors Student/Parent

Fundraisers Student Fees

Assist Hispanics in developing the skills and confidence to become committed and involved in their schools and community.

Enhance positive social relations in a multi-cultural environment.

Enhance self-esteem, communication skills and leadership abilities.

Encourage Hispanics to complete high school and further their education.

Encourage Hispanics to serve on a leadership board and communicate opportunities to peers.

500 youth in grades 7-12 representing 14 schools from 10 rural communities

Adult volunteers representing a diverse background

Families of program participants

Four-tiered academic/leadership program1. Annual conference provides a series of

educational workshops, exhibits and keynote speakers to address topics identified by the student advisory board.

2. Monthly leadership sessions for student advisory board representing 14 area schools.

3. After school clubs emphasize study skills and projects of interest- sports, sewing, dance, robotics.

4. Educational outreach to families ~ Parent Nights, Project Training, Conference helpers.

Youth and adult board members

Youth serve as workshop facilitators and hosts for exhibitors

Jointly planned and conducted fundraisers and presentations

14 Area Schools – Representing Umatilla and Morrow Counties

Social Service Agencies Education Service District Area Business Leaders, Community

Leaders, Clergy, Parent Volunteers Pacific Northwest Colleges and Trade

Schools Oregon State University Extension 4-H

Preparing for High School/College Leadership and Community Action Keep Your Options Open – Goal Setting Communicating Your Feelings Refusal Skills Teen Health Issues – Nutrition, Stress,

Fitness Meeting Management Roles and Responsibilities as a Citizen Careers – S.E.T., Ag~Natural Resources, Medical Adult Sessions – Understanding School System, Food

Prep, Sewing, Financial Management, Community Action,

Represent 4 Pacific Northwest States

Donate their services

Utilize OSU/4-H curriculum or material from their profession

Most are of Hispanic Heritage

Opening and closing conference motivational speakers

Guest speakers have included:

*Professionals *Former Students *Community Leaders

Represent 4 States

Colleges Careers Health Issues Leadership

Opportunities Many have

attended 20 or more years

Build Trust/Relationships Develop a Process for

Communication Recognize Impact of

Differences Identify tasks that are attainable & sustainable Culturally Appropriate Bring the forum to the Hispanic Community

Personal Invitations

Short Term Commitments

“Helpers” Family Friendly Evening/Weekend

Sessions Provide

Food/Childcare

Be willing to invest time and effort Rethink the traditional model for program

delivery Allow extensive time for relationship

building Partnerships are essential Build in time for families to participate A solid funding base is critical

Language Barriers Targeted Audience Legal Status Cultural Practices Transportation Transition to Youth

Leadership Board Facilities Funding Staffing

9,000 students gained skills in leadership, communication skills, and enhanced their awareness of the value of education.

Students from 14 schools participated in a monthly leadership development program.

A unique collaboration of 28 local and regional partners worked with students to plan and conduct the “Attitudes for Success” program.

The program design has been requested by educators from across the nation.

“I learned anyone can be a leader …even Hispanics.”

“I learned the importance of college – I wasn’t sure before.”

98% of participants indicated they are more likely to attend college because of program.

96% gained leadership skills

Hispanic parents gained understanding of schools & communities

Children achieve academic success

Parents understand importance of school attendance and participation

Families learn how to become engaged in their communities

A retrospective study of former participants (2009-2012) found that 85% were, or had, attended higher education.

“They made me realize that nothing is impossible for me.”

“I learned it doesn’t matter what color your skin is – you CAN be a success”

“I learned how to help in my community”

“I know how to be a leader”

“I learned where to find jobs and what I should do to prepare for life”

“I learned how to support my child. Now I know who to go to”

For more informationContact:

Patricia Dawson, Umatilla County

Professor, Oregon State University 4-H Youth Development Programs

patricia.dawson@oregonstate.edu