4-H empowers young people with the skills to lead for a lifetime. It’s a research-based experience that includes a mentor, a hands-on project, and a meaningful leadership opportunity.
4-H Community
4-H reaches almost six million young people through our community of 100 public universities. Programs are delivered by 3,500 4-H professionals and 500,000 volunteers. Young people experience 4-H through school and community clubs, in-school and after-school programs and 4-H camps.
4-H Programming
Based on their interests and guided by adult mentors, youth develop their own pathway in 4-H. They select from a broad menu of local 4-H programs. There are hands-on, learn-by-doing, opportunities for everyone.
We Believe In:
all young people’s potential;
developing young people who are empowered, confident, 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, and
