4-H Day at the Capitol YOUth Representative Orientation 2009

Purpose Represent Oklahoma 4-H members and the program to legislators. Make Oklahoma 4-H and OCES more visible. Tell the 4-H story: success stories and impact on lives and communities and communicate our purpose and programs.

Role of a YOUth Representative Know your facts about 4-H and Extension Tell the 4-H story – history and purpose, personal, local, county and state successes and experiences. Communicate the positive role 4-H plays in Oklahoma communities. Sell the 4-H program and gain legislative support Positive, enthusiastic and “can do” attitude

Youth Responsibilities Professionalism Excused from school Keep Extension educator informed Make and confirm appointment(s) Meet deadlines and be on time “Legislator Lunch Reservation form” due 3/26/09 “Legislator Lunch Reservation form” due 3/26/09 Be informed about elected official Research 4-H and OCES Prepare a message, handout and talking points Write thank you note

Legislator Lunch Reservation Form

SkillLife SkillApplication to Real Life Reading a recipe or mixing chemicals Learning to Learn Following directions – from a “put-together” to employer instructions on the job Schedule for planting and harvest or meal preparation Planning and Organization Coordinating school, work and 4-H activities; job manager/supervisor; parenting Growing, preparing and eating fruits and vegetables Healthy Lifestyle Choices and Self- responsibility Good nutrition, improved health, source of exercise, caring for others or things which are reliant on you Food preservation or use of power equipment Responsible Citizen and Teamwork Safe food source, decrease injury due to negligence or carelessness Working side-by-side with a mentor, listening, watching and learning - Sharing what you learn Cooperation, Nurturing Relationships, Communication Respect for experience and gaining knowledge; active listening as a spouse or employee; speaking/communicating instructions or information

Expand your knowledge of 4-H and OCES Resource Sites: Interview county Educator, club leaders and 4-H members for stories to highlight. Identify key life skills which can illustrate how 4-H has helped you and your family grow. Proof, edit, and PROOF AGAIN Message & Handout

Create Outline from handout content PRACTICE – in your mind and out loud how you are going to expand on the key points. DO NOT read from your handout. Rehearse with county Educator Practice extemporaneous answers to questions which might be asked. Talking Points

Know your Elected Official Recognize their face Voting record Priorities Committee assignments Who is on their staff Personal interests and family

Making Contact Communications – written and verbal Be thorough in what you write and say Complete the (electronic Excel) Response Card and to Gloria at the State 4-H Office. Keep notes of phone conversations – who you talked with, the date and time Follow-up all phone conversations with written confirmation

Professionalism Appearance – shirts ordered will be mailed to your home Nametag Dining etiquette Handshake Use of Yes Ma’am and No Sir Introductions Gallery etiquette

At the Capitol Be on time Bring map of capitol, tentative agenda and multiple copies of your handout. Be an informed articulate representative of all youth touched by 4-H Understand the purpose of county and state 4-H program Be thankful for their financial support and their time

Making a Difference YOUth are important Be informed with facts and relevant information Well organized message and handout Well rehearsed message 2009