News Summary

SPRINGFIELD —This week's "4-H Project Mini College" program will focus on health and fitness programs.

The project, organized by the Clark County OSU Extension starts Thursday, Feb. 21 at the Springfield YMCA, 300 S. Limestone St.

"Our goal is to get people interested and excited, to bring out learning-by-doing, spark that interest and showcase opportunities kids have to learn," said Patty House, Clark County 4-H Extension educator.

The pilot program is funded by a grant from The Ohio 4-H Foundation. If it succeeds, officials expect it to be replicated in other counties. The first session of scheduled five sessions will feature a teen health scene, including a lap around an indoor driving course wearing "drunk goggles."

"Keeping fit for life is an important concept, even at a young age," said House, coordinator of the mini college program since fall.

The program will strive to increase participation in county and state fair competitions, something House said she has been longing to do for a long time.

Thursday's opener — "Stepping to the 4-H Beat" — starts at 6 p.m. with registration in the gymnasium. Participants will choose three activities to complete. Each will receive a pedometer.

"These projects do come to life," House said. "Kids can really get into them just like an animal, they just have to get started."

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0356 or dmjordan@coxohio.com.