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 African people around the world. It provides high school students with cultural competency that has built student self-awareness. Students learn about Africa and explore who they are through a tradition rite of passage. The progam is a six thru twelve week life skills program. The goal of the program is to motivate students to make think and lead while helping resolve crucial issues in the community. The class provides students the ability to problem solve and make better decisions. The program helps prepare students for further education and career exploration in international and foreign affairs. If you are interested in starting a program at your school contact Demetrius Brown at (414) 290-2435 or by email. Information paper: view

Community Learning Center
The 21st Street Community Learning Center's After School program offers homework help to school age children after school. Our objective is to provide knowledge, awareness and learning as it pertain to improved reading and math skills. We offer k-4 thru 5th grade children a fun and safe environment where friendships are made. Our children learn through experiential projects and exposure to culturally appropriate readings. The programs offers enrichment activities through 4-H club, chess clubs, reading club, and drama club. Children are also involved in team sports. There are instructors and mentors that are available to provide one-on-one tutoring and homework help. The Community Learning Center located at: 2121 West Hadley Avenue and is open Monday thru Friday from 2:30pm until 6:00pm. For more information, contact Tamika Townsend, 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 process. This hands-on program is free or charge.. All participants will have to complete the 20 hours of training before receiving the curriculum. Continuing Education units are available for all participants. Entrepreneur Train the Trainer Teacher Workshop. For more information, contact Demetrius Brown, (414) 290-2435. The next training will be held in December 2008.