MONTE VISTA – The San Luis Valley 4-H Robotics program is currently recruiting adults ages 18 and up to serve as volunteer coaches. They are hosting a free in-depth robotics coach training on Saturday, October 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the extension office in Monte Vista. The training is an opportunity for adults to learn about coaching and positive youth development. They’ll also get hands-on practice with programming, and be shown resources to help them with the technical aspects of robotics.

“Our San Luis Valley 4-H Robotics program can only thrive and grow with the help of our volunteer coaches,” said Amy Henschen, 4-H Youth Development Agent with Colorado State University Extension. “These individuals help youth to learn and grow by providing support and guidance to our teams. We know a lot of people feel intimidated by the idea of helping out with robotics. This training will help show people that they don’t need prior knowledge of robotics or programming to succeed in this role.”

Robotics coaches meet at least once per month with their teams and attend monthly robotics challenges and competitions, which are typically held the first Saturday of the month. No previous experience is necessary. Volunteers just need an enthusiasm for working with youth and a desire to serve.

In addition to the in-depth coach training, volunteer receive ongoing support from the SLV Area Extension office staff throughout the season. Adults who run robotics programs or coach robotics outside of the 4-H program are also welcome to attend this training.

“We’ve gotten a lot of experience about what works and what doesn’t when it comes to coaching youth robotics teams,” said Henschen. “We want to make sure we’re sharing this information so that more youth in the SLV have the opportunity to benefit from participating in these exciting and impactful programs.”

Adults who are interested in participating in the robotics coach training should RSVP to the Extension office at 719-852-7381 or [email protected]. RSVPs are due by October 19. The training is free for all potential 4-H coaches, and includes lunch. Non-4-H attendees need to pay for their lunch costs. All 4-H volunteer coaches must go through the 4-H volunteer screening process, which includes a reference and background check, before they can begin serving as a coach.

For more information on the 4-H youth development program, visit the San Luis Valley website at http://sanluisvalley.colostate.edu, call 719-852-7381 or email [email protected]. 4-H is a cooperative effort between Colorado State University Extension and Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Mineral, Rio Grande and Saguache counties. Extension programs are available to all without discrimination.