Purdue Extension-Allen County started two new 4-H after school clubs in 2012. They were funded by a National 4-H Mentoring Program grant.

The clubs met at the Euell C. Wilson Center and Neighborhood Action Center (now Homework Help of Catholic Charities). Forty youth between the ages of 6 and 13 met twice a week, enjoyed a healthy snack, and participated in programs. Programs covered topics such as planting flowers, decision-making consequences and choices, bullying, goal setting, and dealing with peer pressure.

There were also family nights when participants shared a meal and participated in activities together, such as sharing dreams and aspirations about the future, discussing personal values, working together to make ice cream, and learning to make and play homemade games.

Purdue Extension-Allen County provided two newsletters to 65 absentee landowners, widowers, retirees, and small landowners. The newsletters helped recipients understand adjustable cash rent leases, tenant rights, lease terminations, flexible cash leases with bonus payments, oral leases, and notices to terminate tenancies. As a result, many landowners entered into new agreements with tenants and three individuals stated they were getting away from oral leases.

The Bank on Fort Wayne initiative empowered participants who do not have bank accounts or who do not have sufficient banking services. Participants are given a chance to open an account at a participating bank or credit union after completing Get Checking, a financial workshop from Purdue Extension-Allen County. Because of the program:

• 34 individuals received certificates of completion



• 8 requested their $50 incentive after opening accounts