In 2016, Maimuna Mannan, then a freshman at Frederick Olmstead #156 in Buffalo, New York, missed her afternoon bus and instead attended an afterschool program organized by Cornell Cooperative Extension Erie County. The program, called the 4-H Youth Community Action Network (Youth CAN), allowed students to observe community projects, including efforts led by her older sister.

The Youth CAN program has been active for 10 years in the Buffalo area and is designed to empower students, including those from marginalized or underprivileged backgrounds. Students participating in the program choose community challenges to address and work with local nonprofits on issues such as homelessness, hate crimes, racism, food insecurity, and mental health.

The program runs afterschool throughout the school year, and a summer component provides students with paid internships related to their areas of interest. Participants also have opportunities to present their work at statewide and national 4-H events, where they build public speaking and leadership skills.

Sara Jablonski, a 4-H youth development educator with CCE Erie County, said that the program helps students see their ideas take shape, which strengthens their belief in their ability to achieve their goals.

Cornell University reported on the Youth CAN program and its positive impact on community engagement and career-building for teens in Buffalo, New York.

Source: Cornell University

Source Type: College

Source Location: Ithaca

Ithaca, NY

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