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Universal Pictures’ “Wicked: For Good” arrives in theaters on November 21, 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sep. 29, 2025) – Young people have the power to spark change, and that energy is taking center stage through a partnership between 4-H and NBCUniversal. In celebration of Universal Pictures’ “Wicked: For Good,” the epic conclusion to the global cinematic “Wicked,” phenomenon, NBCUniversal is supporting 4-H youth who show the world the powerful impact that young leaders can make when they act with purpose - and a little green.
4-H is an official nonprofit partner of the upcoming film, which opens in theaters on November 21. For 4-H’s 6 million young people, this partnership is a defining moment - one that highlights their everyday acts of good alongside the iconic “Wicked” heroines Glinda and Elphaba. These acts can include writing a thank you note, donating to a food or clothing drive, assembling care packages, beautifying local parks or volunteering at animal shelters.
“Today’s 4-H’ers are proving you don’t need to have magical powers to change the world, you just need the courage to do good,” said Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council. “They’re helping neighbors, mentoring younger youth, and organizing food and toy drives, along with planting community and school gardens. The partnership with NBCUniversal shines a national spotlight on those everyday acts of good and invites even more people to get involved.”
A National Call to Action: #4HForGood Challenge
This fall, through a multi-platform campaign, 4-H will spotlight the many ways youth can create positive change. The centerpiece is the #4HForGood Challenge, a nationwide call to action inviting youth, families, and friends to:
- Do an act of good
- Post it on social media with a heart-hands symbol
- Tag 4 others to spread kindness
- Use the hashtag #4HForGood
The challenge will kick off on October 9th during National 4-H Week and run through November 21st. During this time, NBCUniversal will host a career day in New York City, with employees mentoring local 4-H’ers at NBCU’s famous 30 Rock headquarters.
“With ‘Wicked: For Good,’ we have a unique opportunity to harness the cultural momentum of a beloved film to inspire meaningful change,” said Hilary Smith, Executive Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility at NBCUniversal. “By partnering with 4-H, we’re turning the spotlight on young changemakers whose everyday acts of good ripple through their communities. It’s a chance to show that storytelling - especially on a scale as grand as the ‘Wicked’ films - can be a catalyst for kindness, leadership and lasting impact.”
The Tufts University longitudinal study shows youth in 4-H are:
- Nearly 4x more likely to make a positive contribution to their communities.
- 2x more likely to have the goal of being a leader.
- 2x more likely to report living life with intentionality and purpose.
To learn more and join the #4HForGood Challenge, visit Wicked for Good - National 4-H Council.
ABOUT 4-H
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs reach nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through the Beyond Ready national initiative, 4-H aims to increase that number to ten million youth annually by 2030. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
About “Wicked: For Good”
Last year’s global cinematic cultural sensation, which became the most successful Broadway film adaptation of all time, now reaches its epic, electrifying, emotional conclusion. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the final chapter of the untold story of the witches of Oz begins with Elphaba (Oscar® nominee
Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Oscar® nominee Ariana Grande) estranged and living with the consequences of their choices. When a girl from Kansas comes crashing into their lives, they will need to come together one final time and truly see each other if they are to change themselves and all of Oz for good.
About NBCUniversal
NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies. We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our theme parks and consumer experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, MSNBC, CNBC, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, USA Network, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and Universal Studio Group, and have world-renowned theme parks and attractions through Universal Destinations & Experiences. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.
4-H youth don’t just learn – they lead. Through hands-on adventures like the 4-H Dog Project, young people sharpen their skills in animal care, training and showmanship. Through a new partnership with ACANA®, that experience is reaching new heights. Recently, 4-H members from University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service participated in a behind-the-scenes experience at an ACANA™ test kitchen to learn about the care that goes into its food production process.
ACANA™ is a leader in providing dogs and cats with nutritious foods and treats, made with wholesome and nourishing ingredients and crafted without compromise. ACANA™ and 4-H are collaborating to prepare young people for tomorrow by supporting 4-H’s Beyond Ready initiative.
“National 4-H Council's partnership with ACANA™ provides 4-H youth with the work-ready skills, confidence and hands-on experiences they need to thrive in a rapidly-changing world. Together, we’re helping the next generation grow Beyond Ready so they are prepared for the future,” said Heather Elliott, Senior Vice President and Chief Development & Marketing Officer at National 4-H Council.
ACANA™ stands out for its trusted farmer partnerships, thoughtful ingredient sourcing, and careful manufacturing process. By connecting with youth who have a deep passion for pet care, they provide the perfect platform to inspire responsible pet stewardship and future growth.
“At ACANA™, nourishing dogs goes hand-in-hand with empowering the people who care for them,” said Emily Dowling, Marketing Director at Champion PetFoods. “Through our partnership with 4-H, we’re proud to support youth who are building the skills, confidence, and leadership needed to thrive—not just in the ring, but in the workplace and beyond.”
A new 4-H youth survey shows that young people value critical thinking, teamwork, honesty, and leadership as the most important skills for success in career and life. Whether 4-H'ers pursue careers in veterinary science, animal behavior, community leadership, or simply grow into responsible pet lovers, the lessons they gain through the 4-H Dog Project will help them achieve their goals.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 23, 2025) – Stacey Osborn, Global President of Champion Petfoods, joins the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees. With a talent for bringing clear focus to rapidly evolving businesses and expanding capabilities, her leadership abilities align with 4-H’s mission of empowering youth to reach their full potential, so they are Beyond Ready for the future.
“Caring for animals teaches us responsibility, empathy, and resilience,” Osborn said. “4-H gives young people those same opportunities to grow. I’m proud to be part of its mission to prepare the next generation to lead with confidence and purpose.”
Osborn started her journey with Mars in 2010 as Vice President of Marketing with Banfield Pet Hospital. She transitioned to Royal Canin in 2014 and held various roles, including leadership of Marketing in the U.S. for Royal Canin and General Manager of Royal Canin China. In her current role as Global President Champion Petfoods, she leads a team around the world growing Champion’s two award-winning brands, ACANA™ and ORIJEN™.
“The possibilities to inspire youth passionate about pet care are unlimited with an experienced leader like Stacey,” said Mark Berven, chair of National 4-H Council’s Board of Trustees. “Her varied professional background will be an extraordinary addition to our team as we continue the important work of developing tomorrow’s changemakers.”
Osborn has degrees from the University of California, Berkeley, and The Wharton School of Business. She held leadership roles at Adidas as the director of retail marketing and Macy’s as the vice president of marketing before joining Mars.
ABOUT 4-H:
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs reach nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through the Beyond Ready national initiative, 4-H aims to increase that number to ten million youth annually by 2030. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H
experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4-H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 16, 2025) – When leadership, resilience and youth impact come together, 4-H Youth in Action winners are at the forefront. Teenagers often receive negative visibility, but four teenagers turned personal challenges into powerful platforms for change, inspiring their peers and strengthening their communities. Each winner receives a $5,000 scholarship and serves as a National 4-H Council spokesperson, sharing their stories to inspire young people across the country and help them become Beyond Ready for the future.
The 2026 4-H Youth in Action winners are:
Antonio Becker, 19, of Minnesota – When high school pressures of unrealistic body image standards left him with negative health effects that led to hospitalization, Becker rebuilt his confidence through 4-H and emerged as a leader, inspiring youth through a series of workshops. As a member of the University of Minnesota's Cooperative Extension, he used his platform as a Minnesota State 4-H Ambassador to champion emotional well-being.
Esther Bonney, 18, of Maryland – After experiencing immense grief from the loss of her brother, she found comfort and purpose in nature as a member of the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension 4-H program. Bonney had opportunities to learn more about the environment, which led her to start Nurture Natives, a nonprofit that promotes biodiversity and youth-led environmental action. Her initiatives have touched more than 80,000 people and earned her national recognition, including a Presidential Environmental Youth Award.
Owen Brosanders, 18, of Arizona – Having personally experienced extreme heat in Tucson, he became an environmental champion. A member of the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, Brosanders is a student representative on his local school board. He also led a young adult coalition that successfully advanced youth-led resolutions in the Tucson Unified School District, proving the power of youth-driven civic engagement.
Graycie Montfort, 17, of Texas – Born with significant hearing loss, she was told she may never speak. Through hard work and support systems she found in 4-H programs in Texas A&M University Cooperative Extension, Montfort is a confident spokesperson and passionate fashion designer. As a Texas 4-H Fashion Ambassador and entrepreneur, she inspires others with her business, Super Ears for Super Kids. She sells headbands and donates half of the profits to help families afford hearing aids.
“Our research confirms young people feel more prepared for the future when they participate in 4-H programs,” said Jill Bramble, President & CEO, National 4-H Council. “The 2026 4-H Youth in Action winners turned challenges into opportunities and are making a meaningful difference in their communities. With their resilience and determination, Antonio, Esther, Owen and Graycie show they are Beyond Ready to be productive and engaged leaders.”
ABOUT 4-H
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs reach nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through the Beyond Ready national initiative, 4-H aims to increase that number to ten million youth annually by 2030. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 15, 2025) – The National 4-H Council Board of Trustees recently elected five young adults to the 2025 Young Alumni Advisory Committee (YAAC). These rising young stars will help guide the nation’s largest youth development organization and serve as ambassadors, advisors, and advocates for 4-H.
The 18 to 22-year-olds will serve a three-year term, leading alumni connections and donor engagement projects that spotlight how 4-H helps youth become Beyond Ready for career and life. Through the national Beyond Ready initiative, 4-H aims to reach ten million young people through positive youth development to ensure they are healthy, productive and engaged for their future.
YAAC members serve as national ambassadors who mentor current 4-H'ers, offer youth perspectives to the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees, and receive professional development to support their growth. “These young, enthusiastic leaders bring a different perspective, leadership, and a commitment to service,” said Mark Berven, National 4-H Board Chair. “Their contributions, ideas, and experiences will help shape programs that prepare the next generation to thrive.”
Karli Abbott, University of Maryland Extension
A Maryland 4-H alum, Karli was in 4-H for 11 years. She is a recent graduate of the University of Maryland, earning her bachelor’s in environmental science. She plans to continue her work as a 4-H Program Assistant while pursuing her degree in Agriculture Law and Policy. As a 4-H member, Karli was involved in citizen, agriculture, and healthy living programs.
"4-H is where I found my passion for agriculture and public service. As a member of the Young Alumni Advisory Committee, I look forward to helping shape the future of this organization and using my voice to advocate for youth development."
Diamond Jones, University of Arkansas Extension
An Arkansas 4-H alum, Diamond was in 4-H for eight years. She is a rising junior food science student on a pre-med track at the University of Arkansas. As a 4-H member, she was passionate about leadership, volunteering, and STEM-based programs.
"4-H taught me a deep understanding of leadership and service. I will uplift the voices of fellow young alumni and inspire them to recognize their potential to create lasting change within their communities.”
Megna Nayar, University of California Extension
A California 4-H alum with seven years of involvement, Megna is a rising junior at University of California, Santa Barbara majoring in economics and statistics/data science. As a 4-H member, Megna was involved in STEM, civic engagement and leadership programs.
"Through 4-H, I learned how to turn curiosity into meaningful impact. I’m honored to contribute to the strategic vision of 4-H and help young people discover their unique interests.”
Aneisha Sritharan, Iowa State University Extension
An Iowa 4-H alum with 11 years of involvement, Aneisha is a recent graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in molecular and cell biology with an emphasis in neurobiology. As a 4-H member, Aneisha was involved in communication, personal development, and civic engagement projects.
"4-H prepared me with the confidence to lead and the tools to serve with purpose. It helped me find my voice in advocacy, and now as a member of the Young Alumni Advisory Committee, I will promote the 4-H organization where every young person is empowered to make a meaningful impact.”
Luke Stephens, Auburn University Extension
An Alabama 4-H alum with 12 years of involvement, Luke is a rising junior at Coastal Alabama Community College, majoring in general studies. As a 4-H member, he was heavily involved in animal service, leadership, and citizen projects.
"4-H was influential in shaping my identity as a leader and advocate for agriculture. I’m eager to assist with programming that will help youth develop the skills, confidence, and vision they need to become leaders in their own right.”
Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council said, “Each of these exceptional young alumni bring years of firsthand 4-H experience and a deep understanding of what young people need to thrive. They are Beyond Ready. Their voices and insight will guide and strengthen our mission to make sure that youth perspectives remain central to everything we do.”
ABOUT 4-H:
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through Beyond Ready, 4-H will increase that number to ten million youth annually. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 10, 2025) – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), along with Representatives Glenn "GT" Thompson (R-PA-15), Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Andy Harris (R-MD-01), and Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-02), have formed the bipartisan 4-H Congressional Caucus in the 119th Congress.
The Caucus will serve as a platform to advance federal Policy and investment in Cooperative Extension’s 4-H programs, which reach nearly 6 million youth around the country through hands-on learning in agriculture, STEM, health, and civic engagement. With strong bipartisan leadership, the Caucus will elevate the importance of positive youth development and build a workforce and society that’s prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.
Caucus leaders are united in their support of 4-H’s Beyond Ready initiative—a bold effort to equip 10 million young people with the skills, confidence, and support they need to thrive in work, life, and community. From career readiness to civic leadership, 4-H youth are gaining real-world experience through locally rooted programs led by Land-Grant Universities and their Cooperative Extension partners.
“Through the Beyond Ready initiative, 4-H is preparing young leaders for future careers while helping them build character, confidence, and a deep sense of purpose,” says Jill Bramble, President and CEO, National 4-H Council. “This bipartisan Caucus strengthens our ability to bring those life-shaping opportunities to even more youth, in every corner of the country.”
4-H is the youth development organization of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
At a time when the nation faces pressing challenges across its workforce, food systems, and civic infrastructure, the 4-H Congressional Caucus signals a powerful, bipartisan investment in America’s future—one that recognizes that the next generation must be Beyond Ready to meet the moment.
“With support from the 4-H Caucus, we can invest in more youth across rural, suburban, and urban communities,” said Vonda Richardson, Director and Associate Administrator, Cooperative Extension, Florida A&M University and Chair, Extension Committee on Organization and Policy (ECOP). “We are grateful to the Caucus Co-Chairs for recognizing the value of Cooperative
Extension and the power of 4-H to inspire the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.”
The Caucus will convene briefings, events, and discussions throughout the year to inform federal policymaking and amplify the voices of young leaders making a difference through 4-H. Additional members are expected to join before the July 4th recess.
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ABOUT 4-H
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through Beyond Ready, 4-H will increase that number to ten million youth annually. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
WASHINGTON, DC (June 26, 2025) The National 4-H Council Board of Trustees welcomes Michael Lavin, founder and managing partner of Germin8 Ventures, to its Board of Trustees. A recognized leader in leveraging science and technology to transform the Ag supply chain and global food systems, Lavin brings deep expertise in emerging technologies and partnership models that align with 4-H’s commitment to innovation.
At Germin8 Ventures, Lavin leads a venture capital firm that backs pioneering technologies that drive resilience and reshape supply chains. With a portfolio spanning agriculture, biotechnology, and AI, Germin8 supports innovative startups that provide solutions for future-proofing the farm, nutrition, and food security. Additionally, Lavin serves as Vice Chairman of OSI Group, a premier global supplier of custom value-added food products to the world's leading foodservice and retail food brands.
“I’m honored to join the 4-H Board of Trustees and contribute to an organization that empowers the next generation of leaders,” Lavin said. “Our nation’s youth are a projection of America’s future, and I am grateful for the opportunity to support 4-H’s mission to equip youth with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to thrive.”
Lavin currently serves on the Board’s Investment Subcommittee, providing strategic guidance on investment decisions. His insights support long-term growth and mission-driven impact.
“As we look to prepare youth for tomorrow, Michael’s extensive knowledge recognizing innovative systems and deep understanding of agriculture and food sectors will make him a key contributor to our strategic vision,” said Mark Berven, Chair of National 4-H Council’s Board of Trustees.
Lavin’s appointment reflects 4-H’s ongoing commitment to excellence in leadership and its strategic focus on food, agriculture, AI and innovation to shape a better future for all.
ABOUT 4-H
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs reach nearly six million
young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through the Beyond Ready national initiative, 4-H aims to increase that number to ten million youth annually by 2030. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Archana Gharpuray started her career at Hughesnet over 35 years ago as a software engineer. Today, she leads the software development teams for the Hughesnet JUPITER satellite ground systems. Her team of around 100 engineers collaborates with experts worldwide to create cutting-edge satellite ground technology.
What sparked your interest in a STEM Career? What training/education did you participate in to pursue this career path?
Growing up, I was the kid who always asked why. Why does this work? How can I make it better? That endless curiosity led me down a path I never expected but has shaped my life in amazing ways.
My journey into engineering began at home. My dad noticed my interest and encouraged me to explore communications engineering – a field not many girls chose at the time. But that only made me more determined. I wanted to understand the world and build something meaningful.
After high school, I enrolled in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Telecommunications. It was both exciting and challenging. There were times when I was buried in complex math or struggling with tough group projects. But through it all, my passion for creating solutions kept me going. There's a special kind of magic in seeing something you helped design actually work. That feeling never gets old.
What are some skills that you use day-to-day that people would be surprised you need to know?
Engineering is about way more than just equations. Every day, I use skills like communication, creativity, and teamwork. Whether I’m explaining technical ideas to non-engineers, writing detailed reports, or brainstorming new designs, I’ve learned that engineering is as much about people as it is about technology.
Creative problem-solving is at the heart of what we do. It's not just about getting the right answer - it’s about finding better answers, new ideas, and fresh perspectives. And almost nothing in engineering is done alone. Teamwork isn’t optional - it’s essential.
"You don’t need to have it all figured out - you just need to be curious and willing to learn."
What advice would you give to someone interested in turning their passion for STEM into a career?
If you’re someone who loves puzzles, questions, and building things - big or small - then engineering might be the perfect fit for you. My advice? Start exploring now. Build a simple circuit. Take something apart just to see how it works. Join a STEM club, try a free coding class online, or volunteer for a school tech project.
And here’s the most important thing: you don’t have to be perfect to pursue engineering. You just have to start. Mistakes, failures, and messy first tries are all part of the process. That’s where the real learning—and growth—happens.
WASHINGTON, DC (April 29, 2025) – The National 4-H Council Board of Trustees welcomes Shannon Hauf, Senior Vice President and Head of North America, Australia and New Zealand Product Supply at Bayer Crop Science.
As a Minnesota 4-H alum, Hauf has built a career focused on innovation, sustainability and supporting women in the sector. She has a lifelong connection to agriculture, having grown up on a corn, soybean and livestock farm in southern Minnesota where she remains actively involved in her family’s farming operations.
“Shannon’s long track record of leadership in agriculture makes her a great addition to our Board of Trustees,” said Mark Berven, 4-H Council Board Chair and President & COO of Nationwide Insurance. “We’re certain as she creates more career opportunities for women in the industry, she will help 4-H cultivate the next generation of leaders who are Beyond Ready for success.”
At Bayer Crop Science, Hauf leads a team responsible for delivering the highest quality crop protection and seed products to farmers. Her impact in the agriculture sector has been recognized through multiple industry awards, including honors for leadership in agriculture technology and contributions to sustainable farming practices. She will leverage this experience and passion to help prepare youth for success in work and life.
Shannon Hauf, Senior Vice President of Bayer Corp Science
Hauf is actively involved as a 4-H leader in Missouri where her children are members.
“I’m exactly where I want to be, at the crossroads of innovation and the farm and 4-H helped me get there. Those early programs taught me strategy planning, communications and confidence. On the Board, I will use my leadership and influence to help prepare youth for the evolving needs in the ag industry."
ABOUT 4-H
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million
young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through Beyond Ready, 4-H will increase that number to ten million youth annually. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Jill Bramble, 4-H President and CEO, and Kristine Dixon, Charles Schwab Foundation Executive Director
Today’s young people are ambitious and eager to work toward economic success. As we see a growing number of youth seeking content from financial advice influencers on TikTok (aka FinTok) and other platforms, it’s clear that there’s a strong demand for trustworthy information on how to achieve their financial goals.
According to National 4-H Council’s Beyond Ready survey of American teens, these goals include owning a home (77%), being financially secure (68%), and living debt-free (67%). Many young people also aspire to own a business (36%), a goal especially high among Black teens (55%). This same research revealed 41% of teens wish money management was taught at their school. Ensuring that financial literacy education is broadly available is a crucial part of helping youth make their dreams a reality.
The unique challenges young people face today – such as growing credit card debt compared to previous generations and delaying major life milestones like homeownership due to financial concerns – make it even more essential that we provide them with guidance on how to navigate the 21st century economy.
Schools are expected to do more with less. While some education systems make financial literacy a part of their curriculum, there is still a critical gap to fill in many communities across the country. But schools can’t do it alone.
To ensure young people are Beyond Ready to succeed, leaders across corporate and nonprofit sectors must step up, working with schools and communities to make modern, relevant financial literacy education and tools available to young people nationwide.
One example of successful collaboration is the 4-H Smart Cents program. 4-H educators from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension collaborate with skilled professionals through a partnership with Charles Schwab Foundation to create a financial literacy playbook for educators across the country. The lessons cover essential, practical topics like paying for college and managing credit card spending. The program provides a roadmap for how leaders across the private and nonprofit sectors can expand financial literacy education outside of the traditional classroom.
Inside Nebraska schools, the state’s Financial Literacy Act requires at least five high school credit hours in personal finance or financial literacy before graduation. Nebraska schools also partner with local banks for in-school savings programs that encourage kids to develop positive saving habits. These creative collaborations – across government, education, nonprofit, and corporate sectors – create financial education resources that benefit Nebraska students, helping cement the state’s status as a leader in this space.
While the priorities of rural youth may look different compared to youth in urban areas, depending on factors such as transportation or career interests, basic personal finance principles are universal. Students who have a strong foundation in financial literacy are better equipped to save and invest their money, set financial goals for the future, and in some cases, even start a business before graduating high school. Equipping the next generation with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their money is crucial for the long-term growth and prosperity of our nation.
The world is moving at a rapid pace, and financial literacy will remain an essential skill for young people. With smart investments in teaching these basic life skills, we can empower youth to become confident in their financial decisions and their economic outlook for the future. And working collaboratively across sectors that help emphasize financial literacy and partnerships like Schwab and 4-H, it ensures that youth have the essential skills to become Beyond Ready for work and life and build essential skills for success that drive even better results.
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The Charles Schwab Foundation is a nonprofit, private foundation, classified by the IRS as a charity under 501(c), (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation is neither a part of the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (member SIPC) nor its parent company The Charles Schwab Corporation.
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