Community Central Helps Youth Thrive Through Discovery

The 4-H Community Central program in Lewiston and Portland offers high school students opportunities for workforce skill development and career/college exploration, connecting them with professionals and increasing their social capital. In 2024, two 4-H professionals provided programming in partnership with public schools and housing authorities. Short-term SPIN clubs connected teens with local professionals, while long-term weekly programs offered hands-on skill development. Sessions were designed based on youth interest in real-time. One hundred and ninety three youth were able to connect with professionals in their communities who are part of the areas of the workforce they are interested in pursuing.