Annette Deering, Field Specialist in 4-H Youth Development, has worked with Atchison County youth and adult volunteers for 24 years. Annette is proud of not only seeing youth and families engage in 4-H opportunities, but also in the relationships 4-H has established with schools and other youth-serving organizations within her counties. These opportunities include community clubs, short special interest events, regional and state contests, after school education, and in-school enrichment including nutrition-based advocacy programs.

As a 4-H youth development specialist, Annette has engaged with youth from a variety of backgrounds to become valued, contributing members of their communities. She is knowledgeable on a wide variety of youth development topics, with a specific passion for day camps, school-based programs, and Clover Kids events for the youngest 4-H members at ages 5-7. These hands-on opportunities would not be possible without the 4-H volunteer base and community support, both of which Annette has appreciated throughout her time as a 4-H specialist.

When asked about her most interesting project, Annette said, “The project ‘Working Together,’ an international cooperative program between Missouri 4-H and Bangladesh Nutrition Clubs. The program consists of seven lessons, delivered live via Zoom, engaging youth in learning about different cultures.” One of the goals of this program is to increase cultural understanding for youth by sharing their food, family structure, and hobbies, in an online safe environment.

Annette’s upcoming goals include making 4-H programming accessible to all youth by increasing delivery modes and partnerships within her local communities. With plans to grow 4-H membership, Annette grounds her work through engagement with the four H’s (Head, Heart, Hands, and Health) that guide the learning behind America’s largest youth development organization. Annette’s work with 4-H gives youth the ability to explore their passions, find new interests, belong to a group, and meet new friends all while building their confidence in themselves through skills such as leadership and public speaking.

To contact Annette regarding how 4-H and MU Extension can assist you, collaborate with your organization, or if you are interested in volunteering, please email her at deeringa@missouri.edu or call call the local MU Extension office at 660-744-6231.