In the critical developmental window of early adolescence, middle school youth often find themselves in a “liminal” space—too old for the basic activities of childhood, yet not quite ready for the high-stakes leadership roles of senior high school. To address this, Washington County 4-H developed Wash. Co. TWeen Connect.
By intentionally designing a space for grades 5–7 to engage across 16 local clubs, the program does more than just provide a social outlet; it serves as a practical application of the 4-H Thriving Model.
At its core, the Thrive model focuses on the Developmental Outcomes of youth—such as academic success, social competence, and high personal standards—which grow from primary components some of which are:
- Sparks: An inner passion or interest that provides a sense of direction and purpose.
- Belonging: A safe, inclusive environment where youth feel seen and valued.
- Developmental Relationships: Connections with peers and adults that challenge growth.
Wash. Co. TWeen Connect is modeled after the successful “Teen Connect” program for high schoolers. By adapting this structure for middle schoolers, it creates another cohort of young people that grow up through 4-H and become the future high school leaders in Washington County. Here is how the program reflects the Thriving Model:
1. Fostering a Sense of Belonging
With 16 distinct clubs in Washington County, youth can sometimes feel isolated within their small local circles. TWeen Connect breaks down these silos. By creating a countywide community, the program ensures that middle schoolers feel part of a larger, diverse movement. This “safe space” allows youth to express themselves among peers going through similar life transitions, which is essential for emotional safety and identity formation.
2.Inspiring “Sparks”
The program offers activities that are age-appropriate and varied—ranging from Retro Game Nights to “Minute to Win It” challenges. Youth are engaged in giving feedback to pick the activities for future events. These activities are also low-stakes opportunities for youth to discover what they enjoy, as well as people! TWeen Connect provides the oxygen needed for a youth’s “spark” to catch fire.
3. Building Connection and Developmental Relationships
One of the most unique aspects of TWeen Connect is the involvement of senior 4-H members. When high schoolers from Teen Connect mentor the younger “tweens,” a multi-layered web of connection is formed:
- Peer-to-Peer: Tweens find common ground with others in their grade level.
- Near-Peer Mentoring: High schoolers model leadership, showing the younger members what their future in 4-H can look like.
- Adult Support: Volunteers and staff facilitate the environment, providing the “warmth” and “high expectations” necessary for healthy development.
While the surface-level goal of Wash. Co. TWeen Connect is social engagement, the underlying mission is the cultivation of the “6 Cs”: competence, confidence, character, caring, connection, and contribution.
For more information about Teen Connect and TWeen Connect contact 4-H Educator Ron Jakubisin at ron.jakubisin@wisc.edu