GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension and Florida 4-H are excited to announce the creation of the Barnyard Challengers 4-H Program, a new partnership that provides opportunities for youth with disabilities to learn about agriculture.
The Barnyard Challengers 4-H Program is a collaboration between UF/IFAS Extension, Florida AgrAbility, county Extension offices, and local fairs and expos. The program offers a series of educational classes that engage youth aged eight and up who have disabilities, teaching them about various aspects of agriculture, starting with a focus on poultry.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 15% of individuals aged three to 21 are served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, meaning they have a diagnosed disability that can impact their academic and career outcomes. The Barnyard Challengers program aims to address this gap by giving these youth a chance to develop valuable life skills like responsibility, independence, leadership, and teamwork.
In addition to the educational sessions, the program also features peer mentors who assist and support the participating youth during the activities.
Individuals interested in participating in the Barnyard Challengers 4-H Program can contact Vanessa Spero at vspero@ufl.edu for more information.