New Jersey 4-H Junior Explorers Virtual Short-Term Exploratory Program (STEP)

Abstract

During the worldwide pandemic, youth were isolated from each other. In response, New Jersey 4-H, a part of Rutgers Cooperative Extension, created the Junior Explorers, a virtual exchange program bringing together 4-H members with youth from other countries. This program provides youth ages 10-13 with access to international exchange opportunities that would otherwise be sparse for this age group. This program has demonstrated that Extension professionals can successfully adapt exchanges to a virtual platform. With youth the world over learning virtually, Extension professionals have a unique opportunity to learn from and collaborate with international partners to enhance existing programs.