PARTNERING TO PROVIDE ACTIVITY KITS TO SUMMIT COUNTY YOUTH
Extension Education
Jacqueline Kowalski
University of Connecticut
Bethel
Abstract
Extension regularly partners with library systems to provide outreach and education. The COVID-19 pandemic created challenges for both Extension and libraries who were unable to provide these services in traditional ways. The Summit County (Ohio) Extension office partnered with the Akron Summit County Public Libraries to create activity kits for 3rd-5th grade youth who were not able to participate in regularly scheduled summer activities. The Summit County Master Gardeners Volunteers suggested topics that they were interested in developing into a simple activity using easily obtained materials. Two themes emerged: nature and gardening. A two-page, branded direction sheet was developed for each activity. The direction sheets, items needed to complete the activity, and other supporting materials were placed in either an individual paper or plastic bag. In total, activity kits were developed on twelve different topics ranging from growing microgreens to creating a nature journal. For each topic created, kits were delivered to the Main Library branch for distribution to 19 individual branches (20 kits per branch) for a total of 380 kits distributed per activity. Youth were able pick up the activities to complete at home for free. A Facebook live video was created for each of the kits to provide a demonstration of how to use the materials in the kit. In total, 4,940 kits were distributed throughout Summit County.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: J. Kowalski
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Kowalski, J. Extension Educator, Ohio State University, Ohio, 44307