because speaking to children this way is not common in their households. This entire workshop opened doors for parents and youth to connect at a more intimate level and work on building communication with one another.”
Q: What are the five tips you would give to other Juntos coordinators?
Kathy
1. Kids are born leaders. They may not lead in the fashion we want them to lead, but a leader is a guide. Therefore, as coordinators, we need to guide our kids to be exceptional leaders. As they learn to be club leaders, they will learn to appreciate the club, take ownership of it, and hopefully become the greatest advocate for their club. 2. Make your club known within your schools, school district,
and community. Be creative with community services to ensure your club serves different groups — the Juntos 4-H Clinton Club partners with our elementary schools during kindergarten registration and Read Across America. We partner with our local police department to serve our community by hosting a Latino Town Hall meeting. 3. Parent chaperones/volunteers are still fantastic in middle and high school. Have a list of six or seven board-approved parent volunteers that can chaperone trips and events. By having this many, you can cycle through the list without one parent feeling like they are ALWAYS doing something for the club. 4. There is no ‘ model ’ club. We (coordinators) all do things differently yet still meet our goals. Don't be afraid to ask what others are doing and tweak things to fit your club. One size will not fit all when
working with teenagers who have different needs, wants, and dreams. 5. When having a family event, use it as an opportunity for your parents to meet school personnel. Always invite principals and vice principals. I always ask the superintendent, principals, vice principals, and school board members to come to our Milestone Celebration — for various reasons, such as to allow parents to feel comfortable being around school administration (aside from when a child is in trouble) and so school administrators can see everything Juntos is doing. Occasionally, I allow teachers to join us if
2018 Family Night celebration for Juntos North Carolina
there is a particular parent they have been trying to meet with and if I know the parent will be at a Juntos event. Just don't make it a habit because then the parent or the student can pull away from family nights.”
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