One program that was greatly affected by COVID-19 was the interstate 4-H exchange program. The 4-H Interstate Exchange Program provides youth the opportunity travel across the Unites States to learn about other cultures, 4-H programming, and develop strong connections with other youth. Exchange programs give youth, many of whom have never left their own community, the chance to experience a new place and meet new people in a positive environment. While the COVID-19 pandemic cancelled many 4-H exchange programs, Colorado and Tennessee 4-H found a creative way to make an exchange program work in a virtual world.

Arapahoe and Maury County did not have a traditional exchange program planned, but Extension staff thought that a virtual exchange program would be a unique way to engage older 4-H members. Utilizing Zoom for weekly and bi-weekly “trips”. Youth were able to log in via their smartphones, computers, and tablets from their homes. During the weekly (and bi-weekly) trips, 4-H staff conducted icebreaker activities followed by the 4-H members individually describing their 4-H work. Each week two youth from each county presented on their 4-H experience ranging from farm/ranch tours; project work in clothing construction, quilting, and photography; and presentations on leadership and 4-H competitive events. During each trip, youth led interactive activities including a trivia contest, virtual scavenger hunt, Pictionary, escape rooms, and virtual tours of places within each state.

This program provided youth the opportunity to get a glimpse into other programs, states, and locations. It also provided them with much needed socialization and a way to build relationships. One participant put it best, “This makes me feel not so alone. I have continued to grow in 4-H even though I can't see my friends, and I have made new friends that I share the same interest with.”