Enhancing Florida's Families and the Florida 4-H Program
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UF/IFAS
2006-07
Budget Request
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Enhancing
Florida Families and the Florida 4-H Program
We Need
Your Help
The University
of Florida has identified a “Family and 4-H Initiative” as part of the
legislative budget request for 2006-2007. They recognize that additional
4-H and Family Extension staff are critical, given the small number
currently supporting families and 4-H programs.
Research clearly shows the most effective
ways to reduce risks and strengthen families and youth are two-fold:
1) teach the
skills and behaviors associated with strong families and
2) provide youth
with positive learning opportunities that prepare them for the future
More educational opportunities, based on current research in family and youth development, are needed to build coping skills and stronger support systems for families.
When individual families develop healthy life choices skills, such as financial management, affordable and accessible housing, and intergenerational support, they are more productive and have less health care costs, lower incidence of family disruption and increased well being. When youth experience positive youth development programs like 4-H in their community, they have less high-risk behaviors, higher school attendance and grades, better conflict management skills, and better work habits.
The Family and 4-H Initiative will provide individuals, families and communities greater access to information on managing family resources, making healthy choices, and 4-H youth development.