University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H will offer its hands-on virtual summer learning series July 7–August 11. The series presents more than 20 workshops on a wide variety of topics to fit a broad range of interests.

Originally launched in 2020 to provide additional educational opportunities for youth during the pandemic, the UMaine Extension 4-H Summer Learning Series continues to play an important role in helping to alleviate some of the learning loss that occurs each summer.

The series features engagement-building activities in the fields of arts and crafts, food and nutrition, STEM, marine science and aquaculture, animal science and agriculture, and more. Participants log on and learn from UMaine staff and volunteers with a variety of expertise. The workshops also provide opportunities to learn more about the 4-H program and to connect with other youth from across Maine. All materials needed to complete the hands-on activities will be mailed to participants at no cost.

Workshops are free with optional sliding scale fee and open to all youth ages 5–18. Registration is required. Find more information on the Extension 4-H Summer Learning Series webpage. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Sarah Sparks at 207.581.8206 or sarah.sparks@maine.edu.

About University of Maine Cooperative Extension: As a trusted resource for over 100 years, Extension has supported UMaine's land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and help grow the food-based economy. Extension also leads Maine’s 4-H program, the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in the state. 4-H programs are grounded in the belief that kids learn best by doing and are developed to fit a variety of backgrounds, interests, budgets and schedules. Participants complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement in a positive environment where they are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.