Youth and adults across America are gathering together in a series of conversations to discuss youth development in the 21st century.

These conversations are sponsored by National 4-H Council and are part of the 2002 centennial celebration.

The Iowa Conversation on Youth Development in the 21st Century was on the ISU campus Monday. It was the second stage in the conversation series.

Brenda Allen, program specialist for youth and 4-H, said local conversations were held in 92 Iowa counties in October and November. At the state conversation, 19 delegates were selected from 280 state participants to represent Iowa at the national conversation in Washington, D.C., from Feb. 28 to Mar. 2.

“The goal is to create a national policy on youth development,” Allen said.

During the state conversation, participants broke into groups to discuss five main themes – power of youth, exceptional people and innovative practices, extraordinary places to live and learn, effective organization systems and access, equity and opportunity.

“The conversations were very intense,” said Don Broshar, youth development specialist for ISU Extension.

Barbara Oldham, a homemaker and 20-year 4-H club leader from Eddyville, participated in the state conversation.

“It’s been a tremendous experience,” said Oldham, who will represent Iowa at the national conversation.

Oldham said she enjoyed the open discussion between youth and adults at the conversation.

The conversations opened adults’ eyes, Oldham said. The greatest thing is involving youth in the conversations, she said.

Although the conversations are sponsored by 4-H, anyone can participate, Allen said. Individuals from schools, religious organizations, scouts, YMCA programs and other service organizations took part in the conversations.

“4-H hosted it, but it’s about youth development,” Broshar said. “It’s about all young people in the community. How young people grow and develop is the most important thing in life.”

Findings from the state conversation will be presented to the Iowa Legislature in March. The policy developed at the national conversation will be presented to Congress and the president during National 4-H Conference in April.