Lincoln School HOPE Center Meets The Code of the West

The Hope Center meets the Code of the West

By Lacey Mann, CSU 4-H Extension Agent, Bent & Prowers Counties

Southeast Area—Prowers County 4-H and The Hope Center have partnered to deliver Code of the West Happy Trails curriculum to third, through sixth graders.  The first principle the Hope Center youth have worked through is respect.  They have identified how it relates to their community, those around them and to themselves.  Lacey Mann and Kaye Kasza, Southeast Area agents, have delivered the program.

“The Hope Center is an ideal set-up to deliver this fast paced, interactive program to all ages.  Lori Hammer and the entire staff have been delightful to work with and I look forward to more programming in 2014,” Mann said.

Twice a week the agents meet at the center to work with third and fourth graders one day and fifth and sixth graders the other day.  By breaking up these two age groups the lessons are delivered in a hands on environment.

“This curriculum uses applied activities to help youth and adults think beyond their surroundings.  I have youth work through a variety of activities; some are individual and the others are team oriented, this way they develop self-confidence and working relationships,” Mann said.

The first principle we worked with is respect.  Youth have learned the importance of respecting their community, working together, understanding differences between one another and embracing their self-confidence.

“I have truly enjoyed working with these youth and I know 2014 will be a great year,” Mann said.   Code of the West curriculum is based on James Owen’s Cowboy Ethics and the curriculum was adapted by the Boys and Girls Club in Casper, Wyo.  The Southeast Area is in the process of implementing the curriculum in traditional 4-H clubs as well as after school enrichment.

If your child is interested in joining 4-H or you would like further information on the 4-H program, please contact your local CSU Extension Office; Baca County 719-523-6971, Bent County 719-456-0764, Cheyenne County 719-767-5716, Crowley County 719-267-5243, Kiowa County 719-438-5321, Otero County 719-254-7608, Prowers County 719-336-7734. 4-H is a cooperative effort between CSU Extension and the County.

Contact: Lacey Mann
CSU Extension Agent
4-H Youth Development
(719) 336-7734
Email: lacey.mann@colostate.edu