MSU Extension Launches 4-H Clovers CODE to Empower Youth in Southeast Michigan
The 4-H Clovers CODE program aims to introduce coding and creative arts through technology to youth in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, fostering skills and interests in STEAM fields.
Empowering Youth Through Technology
Michigan State University (MSU) Extension has launched the 4-H Clovers CODE (Creating Opportunities Designed for Everyone) program in southeast Michigan, specifically targeting youth who are eager to delve into the world of coding and creative arts using technology. The initiative will not only help these young individuals grow their skills but also expose them to high-paying jobs in technical and creative career pathways in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties.
This innovative program has been designed to advance STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) learning opportunities in communities that have often been overlooked. By offering a variety of camps, clubs, after-school activities, and in-school partnerships, the 4-H Clovers CODE program seeks to provide new and engaging learning experiences that will resonate with the youth in these regions.
- The 4-H Clovers CODE program is supported by a generous gift from Apple as part of its Community Education Initiative.
- Apple's contribution includes hardware, scholarships, and professional learning support, such as iPads and MacBooks, along with curriculum resources.
Collaboration for Success
One of the core values of the 4-H program model is to foster positive youth-adult partnerships. To facilitate this, five dedicated youth members have been enlisted to assist with the implementation of the project. These young leaders will play pivotal roles in recruiting participants, advising on program scheduling, and facilitating instruction sessions.
Terrell Jordan, a Wayne County 4-H participant and member of the Michigan 4-H State Youth Leadership Council (SYLC), is enthusiastic about the opportunities that this program will bring to the youth in his community. He sees coding as a valuable skill that can open doors both in everyday life and future academic pursuits.
Staff and volunteers who have received training on the program curriculum will be instrumental in sustaining and expanding the initiative. They will not only provide ongoing mentorship to the youth but also ensure that the program reaches its full potential.
Preparing Youth for the Future
Amanda Campbell, a volunteer from Macomb County 4-H involved in launching the program locally, emphasizes the importance of equipping youth with the necessary skills to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of STEM fields. She believes that by instilling problem-solving abilities and fostering creativity through programs like 4-H Clovers CODE, young individuals will be better prepared to drive progress and innovation in their communities.
STEM programming plays a crucial role in shaping the mindset of youth today. While not every participant will pursue a career as a scientist or engineer, the skills acquired through such programs enable them to think critically, explore various options, and engage creatively in diverse settings.
Joining the 4-H Clovers CODE Program
The 4-H Clovers CODE program is open to youth aged 5-19 in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, with a specific focus on middle school participants. The launch of the program includes five short-term 4-H SPIN (Special Interest) clubs in each county, catering to areas like coding, photography, video production, drawing, and music.
In addition to these clubs, two summer camps will be offered to engage participants further and provide immersive learning experiences. MSU Extension is actively seeking community partners who are interested in collaborating on program implementation, such as after-school programs or libraries.
If you are interested in partnering with the program or enrolling your child in this exciting initiative, visit www.canr.msu.edu/4-h-clovers-code for more information.
