Winning 4-H Plan Form-Due by April 30th

What is a Winning 4-H Plan?

The Winning 4-H Plan (W4HP) assists Extension professionals and volunteers by providing resources to aid them in developing accommodation plans to meet the needs of Ohio 4-H youth with disabilities. As a part of The Ohio State University, Ohio 4-H must make all aspects of 4-H, including programming, projects, facilities, and activities, accessible to people with disabilities. Access and inclusion are created with a combination of accessible programming, events, interactions, and spaces, with the goal of allowing the individual maximum independence and minimal intervention from others (such as advisors and educators). The learning and experiences that a member gains through 4-H are just as important, if not more important, as a “perfect” final project or a blue ribbon at the fair. Creating access is more than ensuring the member can attend 4-H events and fairs, it includes choosing an appropriate project, holding meetings and activities in accessible spaces, and including all members in all activities.

School accommodations vs. 4-H Activities Accommodations:

There may be differences between 4-H accommodations and the accommodations received in secondary schools. Secondary school follows the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 (IDEA), which is the nation’s special education law. Schools may need to alter requirements and provide accommodations, commonly with an Individual Education Plan (IEP), to ensure that students can be successful. Schools provide evaluation services to diagnose disabilities and identify accommodations. Ohio 4-H and OSU Extension, as part of The Ohio State University, are required to provide reasonable accommodations and access through Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This civil rights law prevents discrimination based on having a disability. Any organization receiving federal funding must comply with Section 504. Unlike secondary schools, the family is responsible for seeking services, and an IEP does not directly transfer to 4-H. Although 4-H members are typically secondary school students, the accommodations process is similar to that of college students. Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education may help families set expectations for accommodations within 4-H.

How do you get a Winning 4-H Plan?

• 4-H Parent/guardian submits the filled-out request form to the Morrow County Extension office.
• The submitted form is reviewed by the 4-H Extension Educator.
• A meeting is scheduled with the 4-H member and parent/guardian to discuss the request.
• Accommodation will be arranged after the meeting.
• The family will be notified of approval for accommodations.
• The Winning 4-H plan will be reviewed annually.