Registration is now open for the first ever Winter Academy! Winter Academy consists of three virtual sessions which provide youth with tools to set career and college goals, develop soft skills most important to employers, and build problem-solving skills. By applying, youth agree to actively participate in all three sessions. The sessions will not be recorded for viewing later. Once registration is closed, participants will receive a Zoom link, syllabus and materials needed to complete the sessions including a LEGO® Serious Play® Kit and a Clifton Strengths workbook for youth.
Winter Academy 2026 is limited to 20 youth participants and registration closes January 11, 2026. Registration is now open in 4HOnline for youth in grades 8-10. Completion of the Winter Academy program will earn participants a 30% coupon code off registration for Summer Academy in the same year.
Descriptions of the sessions:
Session 1 – Beyond Ready
Youth will learn to identify and manage their emotions, demonstrate empathy toward others, and build positive social connections—equipping them with essential skills for success in college, career, and life.
Session 2 – Discovering You
Identify what motivates you and drives your decisions. This session will use tools to increase our understanding of ourselves and each other. At the end of the session you will have identified your strengths and what motivates your goals for the future.
Session 3 – Creative Communication with LEGO Serious Play
Practice developing your story to share with others to help you to land that first job or nail that college application. Through play-therapy techniques, youth can use LEGO bricks to help them visualize and communicate their strengths, aspirations, and challenges. These techniques are shown to reduce anxiety and improve creative problem-solving skills.
