Developing Tomorrow's Leaders

UW-Extension youth programs teach young people about responsibility, decision-making, problem solving and leadership. Through hands-on activities, youth learn practical life skills while having fun. Activities include civic engagement, nurtrition, cultural competency, enrichment in the arts, community gardening, camping, sewing, cooking and computer technology.

Extension partners with schools, churches, youth-serving agencies and community groups to sponsor 4-H youth development programs throughout the county. The focus of these programs is building strong character and future leaders.

4-H Community Clubs
4-H provides real-life experiences for youth through practical, learn-by-doing educational programs. It is for all youth in grades K-13 (one year out of high school). Wherever you live, suburb or city, 4-H has something for you. 4-H activities help youth develop self-esteem, become responsible young adults, gain a sense of belonging and improve decision-making, communication and leadership skills. To learn more about 4-H programs in Milwaukee County, visit the 4-H web page.

African Diaspora Leadership Program
The African Diaspora Program fosters cultural knowledge, leadership and a global understanding of world politics as they relate to indigenous African people around the world. It provides high school students with cultural competency that has built student self-esteem. Students learn about African counties and explore who they are. The progam is a six week life skills program with a goal of motivating students to the joy of learning. Students develop decision-making, problem-solving and leadership skills. The program helps prepare students for further education and career exploration in international and foreign affairs. To learn more, read the Informational Paper on the African Diaspora Leadership Program ( 28 pages, 529 KB) or contact Demetrius Brown at (414) 290-2435 or by email.

Community Learning Center
The 21st Street Community Learning Center's After School program offers daily academic enrichment to school age children. Our objective is to help all children improve their reading and math skills. We offer children a safe, fun and hands-on educational experience Monday thru Friday. Our children are writing poetry and reading culturally appropriate books as part of our Reading Buddies program. The programs offers enrichment activities in chess, drama, music and dance. There are six instructors who provide one-on-one tutoring sessions and homework help to children everyday. The Community Learning Center is open Monday thru Friday from 2:30 until 6 pm during the school year with longer hours during the summer. For more information, contact Rhonda Williams, Site Coordinator at (414) 267-5633 or Demetrius Brown, Youth Development Educator at (414) 290-2435.

Alice's Garden Youth Garden Program - "A GARDEN OF READING"
Monday thru Thursday starting in June 2008, enter into the world of imagination and knowledge. Children in second thru fifth grades are invited to join us for our Urban Youth Gardening program using a hands-on approach to engage school-age children and families. Children in 2nd thru fifth grades are invited to join us for our GARDEN OF READING. Children can build up their reading skills and have fun as we plant, weed, water and harvest. . To schedule an outing for your classroom or community group, please contact Venice Williams at (414) 445-5950 or Demetrius Brown at (414) 290-2435

Mini Society Entrepreneurship Program
The Mini Society Teacher Training is a "train the trainer" Entrepreneurial Leadership program created by the Kauffman Foundation. Entrepreneurship has emerged as an increasingly dominant force in our nation's economy, as entrepreneurs create new goods and services, technologies and most of our country's jobs. The Mini Society workshop provides educators with training and curriculum to teach children entrepreneurship through an experiential, hands-on program. All participants will have to complete the 15 hour training before receiving the curriculum. For more information, contact Demetrius Brown, (414) 290-2435.