Gallatin 4-H to use online meeting format for now
It seems 2020 has been predictably unpredictable. Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases and Gov. JB Pritzker's announcement of restrictions, we will not be having any in person meetings or events until further notice. We will not be in our offices at this time either. Please reach out via email, kscates@illinois.edu or message me through Facebook. The uncertainty is frustrating for us all. With this in mind, we are moving forward with an alternative plan.
We understand youth and parents are exhausted with online learning. Unfortunately, the only way for us to move forward with any type of regular programming is through a virtual experience. Hopefully that can transition to an in-person experience at some point.
To make 4-H happen this year, we are utilizing an Explore 4-H curriculum from Utah with a fun theme (hint: there is a school of magic). I have made kits for each youth that include several activities with instructions that range from arts to science. Activities come with links to video instructions and/or written instructions. And, of course the activities will be worked through on the ZOOM meeting. Fallon Scates, a recent 4-H graduate will be our ZOOM leader. She has participated in a wide variety of 4-H events and experiences at the local, state and national level. As a college student she has a lot of experience with Zoom at this point. We are excited about trying this Explore 4-H curriculum from Utah 4-H, it looks like a lot of fun.
To enroll please email kscates@illinois.edu. While we will need to collect the $20 Program Fee this year, we also offer Program Fee Waivers. Program Fee Waiver Forms will be provided with all paper enrollment packets and a digital copy is available under the Files tab on the Gallatin County IL 4-H Facebook Group. I am happy to help you with enrollment, Zoom, etc.- please feel free to reach out. We are excited to try something new.
To learn more about 4-H in Illinois and Gallatin County please email Kassy kscates@illinois.edu as it is the best way to reach us at the moment. If you know a youth who might be interested or you would like to know more about how you can volunteer your skills and time toward the enrichment of youth in Gallatin County please contact Kassy Scates at kscates@illinois.edu or Gallatin County IL 4-H Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/GallatinCountyIL4H/. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact kscates@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.
Dates to Remember
11/3 Closed for Election Day
11/4 Potential Return to Office