The annual Youth Development Institutes are two days of intensive, face-to-face training for Extension program professionals regarding fundamental aspects of contemporary 4-H Youth Development programs. All county and state 4-H Youth Development agents, specialists, program assistants, program associates, EFNEP youth educators, and project managers/directors are invited and encouraged to participate in one of the two learner-focused Institutes. This training provides an excellent opportunity for organizational and professional development, bridging contemporary non-formal youth development theory with applied 4-H program action.
The Institutes are normally held Tuesday and Wednesday of two consecutive weeks in March, the Western Institute in Clemmons (Forsyth County) and the Eastern Institute in Greenville (Pitt County). However, the dates for any particular year may vary due to avoiding conflicts with the biennial State Extension Conference (odd numbered years) and respective District Extension Conferences (even numbered years). A professional may participate in one six hour session on each day, thus providing a maximum of 12 hours of face-to-face training.
The Institutes are usually subsidized by NC CES and/or 4-H Department funds. Participants pay a minimal registration fee ($40 single day or $60 both days) and are responsible for their own lodging and travel arrangements and expenses, and evening meals.
