Maine 4-Hers team up with Microsoft to become ‘Tech Changemakers’

May 25, 2018 Cooperative Extension, Outreach

Five teen leaders from the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Washington County 4-H are committed to bringing positive change to the local community by leveraging the power of technology to tackle the issue of food insecurity.

With support from the National 4-H Council and Microsoft Philanthropies, the 4-H Tech Changemakers are interviewing Washington County community organizations and surveying individuals to learn about efforts to address food insecurity in the region. They are building a website where community members can learn more about local farms and food pantries, as well as countywide efforts addressing issues related to food insecurity.

4-H Tech Changemakers
The 4-H Tech Changemakers, from left, Inez, Mikaila, Paige, Sam and Forrest, show off the Surface Pros donated by Microsoft to assist them with their local project focused on addressing food insecurity.

“Y​oung people have incredible creativity, energy and passion when it comes to improving the communities they love,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO of National 4-H Council. “What makes this new program unique is that 4-H and Microsoft are teaming up to give young people in Washington County the training, resources and support they need to make real and lasting positive community change.”

The project is part of a national partnership that equips young people with the digital skills and resources they need to make a positive impact in their communities. 4-H Tech Changemakers places young people at the center of community improvement.

Microsoft’s TechSpark program launched in 2017 with a focus on accelerating economic growth through regional internet connectivity, digital and career skills development, nonprofit support and digital business transformation.

“We want community members to better understand their local food system, and learn about ways they can help address the issue of food insecurity,” said ​4-H Tech Changemaker teen leader Paige. “We hope to use technology to help tell the story of how farmers, local organizations and community members are working to help solve this problem and get even more people involved.”

The 4-H team is recruiting peers and volunteers to participate in the project. In coming months, the teen leaders will work with local organizations, community members and elected officials.

Machias area residents interested in getting involved or learning more are encouraged to call the UMaine Extension office in Machias at 255.3345 or email Jen Lobley at jennifer.lobley@maine.edu.