Programs of Distinction

Programs of Distinction is a recognition program that highlights high quality youth development programs within Cooperative Extension occurring in communities across the United States. Manuscripts are accepted for peer review on a rolling basis. Manuscripts that meet Programs of Distinction standards are posted in searchable web database. Programs of Distinction are supported by the 4-H system partners and coordinated through 4-H National Headquarters and the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Several award programs present monetary recognition to Programs of Distinction. 4-H National Headquarters is currently accepting manuscripts and award applications from 4-H programs interested in applying for the 2010 4-H and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services (FWS) Connecting Youth with Nature through Natural Resources Conservation Education Award. One 4-H Program of Distinction will be selected to receive $10,000 and for representatives to attend an awards reception in March 2010. For more details, see the flier.

Key dates :

•  4-H Programs of Distinction interested in the award need to submit their award application to pod@csrees.usda.gov by OCTOBER 16, 2009. FWS will convene a panel to review applications; view the award application scoring sheet here.

•  4-H programs interested in becoming a Program of Distinction in time to apply for this award need to submit their manuscript to pod@csrees.usda.gov no later than JULY 20, 2009 . This is the minimum amount of time recommended for manuscripts to complete the peer review process in time, as required revisions are typically needed before a manuscript is accepted. Program of Distinction status must be achieved by OCTOBER 2, 2009 for this award.

Program of Distinction Description and Guidelines (PDF)

Tips for Submitting a Programs of Distinction Manuscript (PDF)

Manuscript Submission Form (RTF)

Programs of Distinction Scoring Rubric (Word)

Programs of Distinction Overview Presentation (PPT)

POD Presentation from Breeze Session (PPT)

Searchable Database

You can now search and browse the Programs of Distinction database. Program summaries are online in the areas of:
    Leadership, Citizenship & Life Skills
    Science, Engineering & Technology Literacy
    Healthy Lifestyles
    Youth in Governance
    Organizational Strategies