Clinton County 4-H: Positive growth, youth engagement

PLATTSBURGH | A few hours or short sessions of adult input could have a major impact on positive growth for local youth. Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) 4-H in Clinton County is poised for expansion in 2026 with 20 active clubs that source activities and learning on topics ranging from theatre to robotics; from STEM exploration, to nature, gardening, crafts, archery, art and animal care. Chelsea Denny, CCE Youth and Family Development/Health and Wellness and Senior Fitness Educator, said next year begins with a 4-H Public Presentation event on Jan. 17. And they are seeking volunteers willing to listen for a while. "We let the 4-H youth pick their own topics for presentation," she said. "We have nearly 200 registered this year, going into 2026. We are looking for people who could listen to presentations and provide positive input." Clinton County 4-H presentations are a major focal point for youth development designed to bring increased confidence and improved public speaking skills. "The presentations allow youth to increase their knowledge of a subject with potential for them to work collaboratively with other kids," Denny said. One of the 4-H groups in Clinton County is a theatre-based club, she said. "They work a play into their community setting and cast it with other kids in their area. Some of the club members will be singing their songs from Annie for their presentation." The presentations will cover a wide range of subjects, but focus centers on public speaking. CCE welcomes adults interested in listening. "For youth presenting for the first time, we have a reduced audience option that will allow kids to hone in on specific speaking skills," she said. Area residents who might have a few hours to spare can contact Denny to find out how to participate. Email: clb299@cornell.edu SUPPORTING POSITIVE YOUTH EXPERIENCE Clinton County's 4-H program is adding new and unique area resources to youth development next year. "We are always looking to bring interesting opportunities for youth," Denny said. "Time commitments for volunteers can range from a few hours to a few days or more, it depends on what people have available to share. If anyone wants to come in and teach, we can work around their schedule. It could be a one-time thing or an ongoing course. "This area is just a wealth of resources and knowledge, being able to connect these youth to these people is so important." CCE 4-H here has an Archery Club, animal and dairy science clubs, and a Bluegrass music club. There are babysitting projects, gardening, teen ambassador and environmental programs. "People might be interested in sharing their birding experience, art or woodworking skills. Kids are interested in expanding computer skills, coding for sure, and we have two robotics clubs. If people want to become mentors, that would be wonderful." Focus on 4-H clubs reaches many age groups, offering programs outside the school environment. Early experience can become hobbies or careers or pathways for higher learning. Adult support in Clinton County might include graphic design, which actually correlates to other 4-H programs, Denny said, such as courses for babysitting. "They make fliers to promote their skills, and kids can enter their finished projects in the Clinton County Fair. "We have in the past had College Career Connection programs for youth to visit area colleges, see the dorm rooms and classrooms and have a meal on campus. It's something I'd like to bring back," Denny said, welcoming input from interested professional or student groups. "There are people who want to share their knowledge, but just don't know how or where to go." And 4-H groups are a flexible option, Denny said. "We have had a junior master gardener series. It's something we're bringing back this year with a Seed to Supper Program for youth and families. Sign ups will be in the spring for the series that starts in April." Clinton County 4-H has experienced strong growth in recent years. In October, the Adirondack Engineers 4-H Club won a $2,500 Glenn and Carol Pearsall Adirondack Foundation grant to purchase a new 3-D computer and compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competition. The Golden Years Program created by Denny and Kari Lamkins, helps combat senior isolation with social activities and projects, sometimes coordinated with 4-H teenagers for multi-generational events. The Youth & Family team recently held a sugar cookie icing event with elders at the Robert S. Long building in Plattsburgh. "We have a group of teen ambassadors that go with us," Denny said. "It's amazing. We're stronger than we've been in a long time." OPENING DOORS Opening doors to opportunity for youth is as wide-ranging as a community can imagine. 4-H programs are offered at no charge and events with fees can be offset by scholarships and grant awards. "Honestly, the great thing is it's nearly always free," Denny said. "We can provide scholarships and funding awards and to cover fees. Events coming in the New Year include 4-H & Town of Plattsburgh Archery on Feb. 17; a 4-H TOP XC Skiing & Snowshoeing Event Feb. 18; a babysitting courses are Feb. 18-19 and April 9-10. There will be a Winter Blues Party at Bear Town Ski Area on Feb. 20. A Horse Bowl & Hippology on Feb. 21, and the Livestock & Small Animal Symposium on Feb. 28. "If someone has something else in mind, we can bring it to the kids," Denny said. "The sky is the limit. If you can think it, we can do it." To learn more about volunteer opportunities for 4-H events or courses, contact Chelsea Denny by email: clb299@cornell.edu To find out more about Clinton County 4-H clubs, visit Cornell Cooperative Extension Service web page: cceclinton.org/4-h-youth/4-h-clubs

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Clinton County 4-H: Positive growth, youth engagement

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