4-H & Youth Development

Many think 4-H is only for people with animals, but it’s so much more! You can do activities like shooting sports, geology, art, citizenship, fashion, and much, much more.

In 4-H we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us. Projects help 4-H members find and nurture their “spark”. When you try something for the first time, you may be inspired to keep learning as much as possible about it. You might even want a career related to that new interest. 4-H projects often spark young people to follow their passions, interests, and talents on a new path to career development, enjoyment, and belonging. Ready for your spark? Learn more about 4-H projects you can explore.

We Believe In:

• all young people’s potential
• developing you people who are empowered, confidant, hard-working, determined, responsible and compassionate- seeing a world beyond themselves so that they have the life-long skills to succeed in college and career
• ensuring access and equity for all
• the power of America’s leading public universities,
• the practice of positive youth development (PYD) by creating positive learning experiences
• caring and trusted adult mentors who cultivate positive relationships with youth
• creating safe, diverse, and inclusive environments

In 4-H programs, kids and teens between the ages of 8-18 complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture, art, fishing, and civic engagement in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult volunteers and are encouraged to take proactive leadership roles.

What is 4-H?

4-H is delivered by Cooperative Extension – a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation that provide experiences where young people learn by doing. For more than 100 years, 4-H has welcomed young people of all beliefs and backgrounds, giving kids a voice to express who they are and how they make their lives and communities better.