Extension program seeks support from Cheyenne, Deuel counties for additional staff
PANHANDLE -- The many programs of 4-H in the Panhandle are outgrowing the few people who administer them. Extension Educator Laura Narjes proposed a plan for help.
By News Channel NebraskaPANHANDLE -- Extension Educator Laura Narjes meets with students, schools and supports county fairs as much as she can. Her vision is bigger than she can carry out, and therefore is seeking help from local counties.
On Monday, she met with the Cheyenne County commissioners with a plan to add a 4-H assistant to the staff. The challenge, according to Narjes, is the University of Nebraska-Lincoln quit funding 4-H assistants.
She presented the commissioners with a handout documenting the number of programs conducted and the impact on education programs in and outside of schools. Programs are available through ninth grade. Some programs rotate locations of local schools. One of her future goals is to host a program for 10th to 12th grade students: "Adulting 101." She also wants to see a financial literacy program in place.
The financial literacy program would teach fundamentals like "you can only spend what you have in your account," and other basics. Adulting 101 is a step further in managing life: how to change an automobile tire, maintenance around the house... fundamental skills necessary for living independently.
In Sidney, she also dos programs with Cool Kids.
"A lot of these programs have a cost to them. We have a lot of partnerships to make that happen," she said.
Tuesday, she met with the Deuel County commissioners with the same concern.
"I've hit my max capacity on my time," she said.
Before both boards, Narjes said she is aware counties have tight budgets.
"I do know I'm asking for tax dollars, and I'm not taking it lightly," she said.
She offered counties can use the funds budgeted for interns to help off-set the cost of a new assistant. She also offered Deuel and Cheyenne counties work together, splitting the cost of the assistant's salary and Cheyenne County absorbing the employee benefits.
The program would be phased in over two years. The program would increase Deuel County's contribution by $9,800.
"Everybody in this room has benefited in some way from 4-H," said Deuel County Commissioner Bill Klingman.
The Deuel County Commissioners approved the proposal 3-0.
The Cheyenne County commissioners were not asked to make a decision Monday. The proposal was made ahead of the budget process.