It is no secret that many rural areas in our county, as well as across the state and nation, face challenges when it comes to reliable internet connectivity. This can also lead to a lack of digital skills which contributes to a growing opportunity gap in other aspects of life such as education, employment, healthcare, and more.
Seeing this need across the state, Indiana 4-H and the Montgomery County 4-H program is excited to launch a 4-H Tech Changemakers team. Montgomery County 4-H would be the first team in the state for this program. This nation-wide program is led by teen leaders who strive to increase digital inclusion in their communities through collaboration with local leaders and government officials. They will provide adults in our communities with the tools to find additional opportunities for employment through expanded access to digital skills training. Lessons that youth would be teaching adults include (but are not limited to) video conferencing, email basics, searching for jobs online, searching for digital information and more.
A team consists of three to five youth who are currently in grades 8-11 and they do not have to be current Montgomery County 4-H members. I am looking for youth that are strong leaders, good public speakers, social media lovers, and are focused and passionate about making our communities better.
Being a 4-H Tech Changemaker is a unique opportunity for youth to learn new skills and build their professional resume for college and career. It is also an opportunity for youth to work alongside their peers, train adults, serve their communities and be advocates for digital equity. They will enhance life skills and build knowledge about teamwork, communication, public speaking, leadership, teaching, facilitating, and more. They will also gain technical skills specific to digital tools such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Outlook, etc.
If you have a youth who is currently in grades 8-11, has the qualities and characteristics listed above, and a passion for serving their community, contact the Purdue Extension Montgomery County office at 765-364-6363. I would love the opportunity to discuss further what this leadership position entails to ensure it would be a good fit. Deadline to contact the Extension office is Sept. 3. If you have any questions about the 4-H Tech Changemakers program or 4-H in general, don’t hesitate to contact Abby Morgan at 765-364-6363.
Abby Morgan is the Montgomery County Extension Education, 4-H Youth Development Educator. The office is at 400 Parke Ave., Crawfordsville; 765-364-6363. She may be reached by email at asweet@purdue.edu.
