presented by patricia dawson oregon state university extension service
TRANSCRIPT
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