Creating a Framework for the Virginia 4-H Youth Livestock Ambassador Program

This project focused on developing a framework for the Virginia 4-H Youth Livestock Ambassador program. A survey tool was developed to distribute to 4-H youth livestock and agricultural ambassador alumni in states with established, active programs, with the purpose of assessing the perceived impacts of participating in the programs. The survey was composed of Likert scale statements. The survey was distributed by program coordinators through their email listservs. Most participants responded favorably to the ambassador program, with most agreeing that by participating, they were positively impacted. Respondents especially thought that participating in the program had helped them feel more confident mentoring younger 4-H members and taught them how to act professionally. Interview questions were developed and asked to program coordinators of 4-H youth livestock or agricultural ambassador programs to gather information on various components of the program, including the application and selection process, ambassador requirements, training, program successes, and improvements to be made. Transcription data from the interview was compiled, trends were identified, and specific components of the programs were highlighted. Information was combined to create a draft guide for the Virginia 4-H Youth Livestock Ambassador program, as well as several key tools for the program, including a draft application and a draft service activities tracking document. Results from this project will be presented to the Virginia 4-H Youth Animal Science Extension Specialist with the goal of creating and implementing a Virginia 4-H Youth Livestock Ambassador program.