Allen named new 4-H youth agent
Larry Allen has been named the new 4-H Youth Development Extension Agent for Cass County through the Prairie View A&M University Cooperative Extension Program.
Prairie View A&M University is the second-oldest public institution of higher education in the state of Texas and the PVAMU Extension (formerly the Cooperative Extension Program) was developed by a partnership of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and land-grant universities in 1914. It continues to stand as a dependable community asset in more than 56 Texas counties, dedicated to enriching and transforming the fabric of Texas communities.
In his new role, Allen is committed to strengthening local youth programs by promoting leadership, life skills, and educational opportunities through hands-on learning.
Allen’s professional goals include developing a longrange improvement plan in collaboration with PVAMU Regional Program Leaders and administrators, as well as crafting an annual development plan to meet short-term professional goals and enhance his impact in the community.
“My mission is to empower the youth of Cass County with the tools they need to succeed, while also continuing to grow professionally and build strong community partnerships,” said Allen.
As part of his responsibilities, Allen will participate in continuous training to maintain technical competencies; collaborate with county staff to coordinate programs and activities efficiently; assist in maintaining organizational records and inventories and lead performance reviews for support staff to ensure excellence in service delivery.
The PVAMU Extension’s main priority is taking knowledge gained through unbiased research and education and disseminate it directly to the people to create positive changes. This is accomplished through the work of local Extension agents also known as Extension educators.
With Allen taking on the educator role, he is dedicated to fostering a collaborative, inclusive environment and is excited to work closely with youth, families, schools and community partners across Cass County.
“I have a background in education and a deep passion for youth development and I’m excited to give back to the community that helped shape who I am,” Allen remarked. “My goal is to build strong, engaging programs that help our young people grow into confident, capable leaders. I’m also committed to continued professional growth, strong collaboration with our county team, and making sure every young person has an equal opportunity to succeed.”
If you’re not familiar with 4-H the program has a rich history in Texas.
4-H stands for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, which are the four values of the program and are part of its pledge. The 4-H program is a global positive youth development program that teaches life skills through handson projects and activities in areas like agriculture, science and citizenship.
The head represents thinking, planning and problem- solving to achieve goals, the heart focuses on developing loyalty, compassion, and a strong sense of personal integrity and responsibility to others, the hands symbolizes skill development, doing work, and helping others through community service and health promotes physical and emotional well-being through healthy living, managing feelings, and appreciating life.
Since 1908, youth have been gaining valuable life-skills through hands-on activities taught and supported by caring adult volunteers and Extension Agents.
And that’s exactly what Allen is, a caring, passionate educator.
“I invite you whether you’re a parent, educator, volunteer, or youth to connect with me and be part of the great things happening in Cass County 4-H. Let’s build something meaningful together.”
For more information or to get involved with Cass County 4-H, contact the County Extension Office at 430562-4844, drop by the office located at 1008 North Louise Street in Atlanta or email Allen at lballen@pvamu.edu.