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How do I lead a service learning project?

Being elected as the Service Learning Chairperson means that you lead your fellow 4-H'ers in selecting, planning, and doing service learning projects. What exactly is service learning? Surf around in the "What is it?" section of the 4-H S.O.S. website to really find out about service learning. See if you can list the eight basic elements of a service learning project. What is reflection? Why should you evaluate a project?

Once you're an expert on service learning, you are all set to be the SLC. Right? Not quite. Being the SLC means that you are a leader in your club. If you've been an officer before, you probably already know how to be a leader. If not, here are some helpful hints.

Be responsible. Do what you're supposed to.
Be dependable. Do what you say you will do.
Be organized. Keep up with dates and times and keep the records you need.
Work with others. You're a leader, not a dictator. This means that you should listen to other people's thoughts and then make the best decision for the whole group.
Be a good speaker. When you're working with your group, make sure that your voice is loud and clear enough for everyone to hear. Make sure that they understand what you're saying and that you understand what they're telling you, too. Don't do all the talking. LISTEN!
Be an active member. Other 4-H'ers will be watching you to see if you participate in other types of 4-H activities. You should go to all the group meetings and take part in what's going on. Give a speech, make a poster, join a judging team. If you're having fun in 4-H, others will too!
Work with the adults. You have adults who are there to help you, and believe it or not, sometimes they know more than you. Listen to their suggestions and don't be afraid to ask for their help.
Be patient. Sometimes working in a group is tough. People have different ideas and want to do different things. Making a decision can take a long time. But don't give up! If you're a patient leader, you can help the group make up their minds.
Be fair. Sometimes there are lots of great ideas for a service learning project. If the group can't decide between them, maybe you can come up with a way to do more than one of them. Choose the one that best suits the time and needs now; then do a different one next month.

Being a leader is fun and exciting, but sometimes a lot of work. Don't worry, though. Your 4-H friends think you're the perfect one for the job! They elected you as the SLC because they know you can be a good leader. If you have questions or you don't know what to do about something, ask an adult. And don't be afraid to ask your fellow 4-H'ers, either. Everyone in the group is important. If you all work together, you can do some really awesome service learning projects!

 

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