OSU Extension strengthens families, youth and tribal traditions

OSU Extension strengthens families, youth and tribal traditions

Monday, December 22, 2025

Media Contact: Jami Mattox | Digital Manager | 405-744-1884 | [email protected]

This fall, Oklahoma State University Extension educators continued to strengthen families, inspire youth and build resilient, connected communities. Whether teaching life skills, celebrating cultural traditions or responding to needs in rural towns, Extension teams statewide worked to ensure Oklahomans felt supported, seen and empowered.

In Pawnee County, OSU Extension assisted families in preparing the future of their land and agricultural operations through a series of farm estate planning workshops. These workshops offered practical guidance on various topics, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, succession planning and effective communication among family members.

Participants learned about legal considerations, financial decision-making and strategies to protect agricultural assets for future generations. The sessions encouraged families to initiate conversations that are often difficult but essential for long-term stability and continuity.

In Garvin County, the 10th annual Xtreme Summer Fun Program, led by family and consumer sciences educator Julie Selman, concluded one of its most engaging seasons to date. Supported by the Allies for Better Living coalition, the city of Pauls Valley, Frontline Family Solutions and Pauls Valley Schools, the program provided youth with a safe and enriching environment throughout June and July.

Selman organized 39 days of themed activities focused on mental health, healthy relationships, online safety, agriculture, arts and crafts, and nutrition. Teen staff members hired by the city played a crucial role in daily operations, while community donors, including the Okie Noodling Tournament, contributed meals and supplies.

With an average of 40 participants per day, the program provided more than 1,400 healthy snacks and 1,450 nutritious lunches.

"Xtreme Summer Fun demonstrates what can occur when a community unites," Selman said. "It's a program that nurtures kids - mind, body, and heart."

In Oklahoma County, 4-H educator Serena Woodard showcased an inspiring example of youth leadership. One of her 4-H members, Kase Curtis, transformed his personal medical experiences into a mission to help others. His objective was to collect 50 new books for young patients at Oklahoma Children's Hospital. Through his initiative, "Kase's Little Library," he successfully collected a remarkable total of 345 books.

Each book was carefully selected, packaged and delivered to the hospital, bringing comfort and imagination to children undergoing medical treatment.

"Kase's compassion inspired this project," Woodard stated. "He took a difficult experience in his life and transformed it into hope for others."

The initiative is expanding. Kase is organizing a second book drive in collaboration with FFA and his high school, which will transform a home football game into a book collection event, replacing traditional admission fees.

In Okmulgee County, agriculture and 4-H educator Shelby Lofton organized the inaugural Mvskoke Traditions 4-H Summer Camp at the College of the Muscogee Nation. This two-day camp combined 4-H programming with Muscogee language, culture and art. Participants engaged in activities such as pottery, beading, Creek storytelling, traditional games and horticulture, all led by the CMN Extension staff.

Registration filled overnight with youth from nine tribal nations. Twelve campers were new to 4-H, and many have already expressed interest in joining the newly established Mvskoke 4-H: Ocmulgee Club.

"This camp filled a cultural gap for my son," one parent said. "He gained knowledge and confidence that I couldn't provide on my own."

For Lofton, the camp represented a cultural milestone and a model for future tribal programming, demonstrating the impact of respectful partnerships and community-based education.

These stories represent a portion of the success stories submitted by educators across the state for the third quarter of 2025. Each one highlights OSU Extension's commitment to education, empowerment and meaningful connections. As fall transitions to winter, the seeds planted during this season will continue to grow, fostering strong families, building more confident youth and creating resilient communities throughout Oklahoma.

Story by: Jacy Gehlsen