The childhood and teenage years are critical for personal development—and local programs like 4-H can play a big role in shaping young lives.
The Newton County 4-H branch, part of the Mississippi State University Extension Service, is coordinated by Katrina McCalphia and Shani Hays and offers a wide range of activities that support youth development through hands-on, interest-based learning. From robotics and agriculture to archery and sewing, the program is designed to meet kids where they are.
Hays, who leads 4-H’s agriculture and animal science programs, emphasized the program’s flexibility.
“Whether it’s plants, robots, animals, sewing, art, or photography, we can tailor things to fit the youth and their interests,” she said.
McCalphia focuses on family and consumer sciences as well as STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) initiatives. Both coordinators also work closely with local schools to bring 4-H experiences directly into the classroom. One such program allows students to watch chicken eggs hatch, teaching them about animal life cycles. Another, called “Welcome to the Real World,” involves a simulation that introduces students to adult responsibilities and decision-making.
McCalphia and Hays both stressed how the main goal of 4-H was making a difference in the lives of young people.
“We’re change agents,” said McCalphia. “We’re wanting to make a difference. And you have to care to do that.”
Hays added, “I don’t care if it’s with a cow or if it’s with a robot, or if it’s with a can of corn—-those are just our tools. Ultimately, it’s for the youth development.” Hayes also listed “a positive adult role model and a safe environment” as the two essential elements of 4-H.
Relating to the topic of how 4-H can change youth for the better, Hayes recounted mentoring a youth who had little motivation to do well in school or get involved in anything until discovered 4-H’s livestock program, where he fell in love with raising livestock. The program gave him the spark he needed to “jump through the hoops,” as Hayes put it, and the young man went on to graduate high school, go to college, start a career, and eventually raise a family.
“Kids find themselves [at 4-H,]” said Hayes. “They get experiences they didn’t know, you know, they get exposed to things they didn’t know existed.”
McCalphia also stressed the importance of helping youth through their personal struggles. “I’ve had students that knew they could call even after hours on my front porch,” said McCalphia. “It’s all about being there [and being] that adult in the community that they know they can trust.”
This year, more than 200 youth enrolled in 4-H in Newton County, not including those who participated through school programs. Enrollment is free, though some programs may have associated costs. Programs include robotics, LEGO club, horse club, community service, livestock club, various shooting sports (including a new slingshot program), summer camps, leadership opportunities, and more.
One upcoming event is the 4-H Fishing Rodeo on July 12, which invites parents and children to fish together and enjoy a day outdoors.
To learn more or get involved with Newton County 4-H, contact the local extension office at 601-635-7011, visit https://extension.msstate.edu/msu-extension-newton-county, or stop by the office at 65 Seventh Street in Decatur.
