International Exchange Opportunities for 4-H Teens and Young Alumni

A 4-H exchange program is available for youth ages 16-19 for the summer of 2010. American delegates may travel to Norway, Australia, Costa Rica, or Japan. Most countries' applications are due February 1st, so please contact the Extension Office now for more information.

4-H young alumni ages 19-30 can participate in IFYE (International 4-H Youth Exchange) programs next summer, but now is the time to start working on your application. Visit European countries, experience new cultures, and do this on the cheap! You are responsible for your airfare, but room and board are covered by the host families. If you are not yet old enough to travel, or have no desire to travel, consider hosting an IFYE from Europe in your home. Call the Extension Office for more details about hosting!

Honey Bee Essay Contest - Win $100

Is our community honey bee-friendly? Write an essay on this very topic and win $100 for first place. The 2010 essay contest, hosted by the The Foundation for the Preservation of Honey Bees, Inc. will accept youth entries until February 5, 2010. For a complete list of rules and entry guidelines, please contact the Extension Office. This is a great way to earn recognition for your writing and research skills, as well as learn more about honey bees and all that they do for us.

Storytelling Competition for Area Youth

The Southwest VA 4-H Center is hosting a story telling competition January 23, 2010, for interested youth. Presenters will have 8-12 minutes on stage to tell their tale. Winners from the state event will be eligible for the national contest in Tennessee. The contest is open to all youth ages 9-19. This sounds like a wonderful new opportunity. Many of you have great dramatic talent, so hopefully you will be able to showcase those skills in the story telling event. Please contact the Extension Office for more information.