4-H Clubs & Affiliated Organizations

The 4-H Clubs & Affiliated Organizations in the United States are part of a broader community centered around youth development through hands-on learning experiences. These organizations are affiliated with the National 4-H Council and operate under the umbrella of Cooperative Extension, which is a network of over 100 public universities across the nation.

Purpose and Activities

4-H is designed to foster positive youth development by focusing on four core values symbolized by the four Hs: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. Young people in 4-H engage in projects and activities that are tailored to their interests, focusing on areas like agriculture, health, science, and civic engagement. The organization aims to empower youth with lifelong skills to succeed in college, careers, and life.

Structure and Reach

4-H programs are available in every county and parish in the United States, making them accessible to nearly six million young people across the country. These programs are implemented through local schools, community clubs, and camps, with support from over 500,000 volunteers and 3,500 professionals.

Community Engagement and Leadership

4-H emphasizes community service and leadership development. Members participate in civil discourse, address health inequities, and advocate for equity and inclusion. They are encouraged to take on leadership roles and engage in proactive activities that improve their communities.

Local Organizations

Examples of affiliated organizations include state-level programs like Illinois 4-H, which specifically focus on issues relevant to their state while adhering to the broader mission of empowering youth.

Impact

Studies, such as the Tufts University longitudinal study on Positive Youth Development, indicate that 4-H members are more likely to have leadership goals, participate in community service, and live with intentionality compared to their peers.

Projects and Programs

4-H offers a variety of projects that cater to different interests, including STEM education, agriculture, healthy living, and civic engagement. Initiatives like CLOVER provide online learning platforms with interactive activities to enhance skills in these areas.