4-H is Now Part of MyPI Program to Train Youth in Emergency Preparedness

The MyPI program is a national initiative based at Mississippi State University that teaches youth disaster preparedness, fire safety and suppression, disaster medical ops, treatment of injuries, search and rescue, and disaster psychology, and certifies youth in FEMA CERT. This program also includes additional lessons and activities for the 4-H clover that help teens enhance their leadership, communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills. For our younger members, the "Ready in the Middle" program is part of this program.

PA 4-H became the 32^nd state accepted into the program in the fourth round of funding for this program in 2024. In the first year of participation, ten adult volunteers from six counties participated in the September training led by Dr. Ryan Akers and Dave Nichols from Mississippi.

Trainings for teens will be held this year in various forms through First Responder clubs in schools, summer day camp programs, and Emergency Preparedness 4-H clubs throughout Pennsylvania. 

For more information on the program, check out the MyPINational Program Website. You can also contact the PA lead of the program, Angie Smith, 4-H Educator in Pike County, with questions: axs1397@psu.edu or 570-832-2804.