Four young leaders from across the country receive $5,000 scholarships for outstanding achievements and community impact

WASHINGTON, DC (October 2, 2023) – National 4-H Council today announced the winners of the 2024 Youth In Action Awards, a national program sponsored by Bayer that recognizes four diverse young leaders who have made a positive impact in their communities.

The winners will each receive a $5,000 higher education scholarship and spend 2024 inspiring other youth by telling their 4-H story. In addition, they will have opportunities to showcase their work nationally, network with prominent 4‑H alumni, and serve as official 4-H spokespeople for Youth in Action.

The announcement was made during National 4-H Week, held October 1-7, 2023 to celebrate and showcase the opportunities and impact that 4‑H offers young people across the country.

The winners of the 2024 4-H Youth in Action Awards are:

  • Katie Collins, 19, Charlotte, Tennessee: Growing up as a mixed-race girl on a dairy farm, Collins often felt like she didn’t quite fit in. In 4-H, she found a sense of belonging and an outlet to be her true self. Collins has since completed hundreds of hours of leadership training and dairy-related volunteer work. Through her leadership as 4-H Honor President, Collins created See Yourself in Ag, a program designed to expose diverse and rural youth to the many aspects of agriculture and ag-related careers. Her program has reached more than 672 4-H’ers, successfully introducing a diverse audience of young people to the agricultural industry; 53 percent of participants were female, and 68 percent were young people of color.
  • Amiyah Elam, 17, Waycross, Georgia: Self-described as a little girl with a big voice, Amiyah found a way to amplify her voice through Georgia 4-H and its prestigious show choir, Clovers & Company. With a desire to have a positive impact on young girls in her hometown, she developed “I AM,” a nonprofit focused on mentoring at-risk girls by equipping them with opportunities, skills development, and confidence. Elam’s program empowers students through lessons in emotional wellness, self-care, personal finance, and career readiness. Amiyah’s  partnership with local nonprofits and professionals in their monthly meetings has instilled confidence and self-worth in the participating girls.
  • Harold “Reed” Marcum, 18, McAlester, Oklahoma: After facing struggles around social anxiety and speaking because of his ADHD, Marcum gained confidence and found his voice in 4-H. He used his newfound courage to organize programs to address the needs of his community, organizing multiple annual events including a Book Bag giveaway and Toy Drive that benefit underserved populations in McAlester. After a young neighbor lost his life to pediatric cancer, he started a foundation and organized an annual silent auction to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and supporting affected families. Marcum’s community has rallied around his leadership, allowing him to grow his projects exponentially every year, estimating a total donation and fundraising efforts close to $3.5 million overall.
  • Avani Rai, 17, Bloomington, Illinois: After witnessing the shortcomings of addressing food insecurity in her community at a young age, Rai became an integral part of 4-H’s Food Advocacy Team, a youth-led initiative to improve equitable access to healthy foods and champion food security. Avani and team organized healthy food drives, meal packaging events, and educated others through community seminars. Avani later expanded her service to overall healthy living, including mental and physical health through yoga. Reaching all elementary schools in her district, Avani’s ‘Super Yoga’ curriculum has been shared with more than 1,300 children. She has also served on the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s USDA-Sponsored Local Food Purchase committee and spoke on a roundtable alongside Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff and White House Domestic Policy Advisor Susan Rice at the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health.

“The 2024 Youth in Action Awards honor four incredible young people, each of whom are model examples of their generation – embodying a commitment to service, a love of their communities and a passion for leadership that represent the best of 4-H,” said Jill Bramble, President & CEO, National 4-H Council. “We are proud that Cooperative Extension’s 4-H programs have offered Katie, Amiyah, Reed, and Avani these opportunities to lead and tools to succeed, which they have used to make a positive impact on their communities and inspire other 4-H’ers to do the same.”

The 4-H Youth in Action Awards, sponsored in part by Bayer, began in 2010 to recognize young people  who overcome challenges and use the knowledge they gain through participation in 4-H to create a lasting impact in their community.

To learn more about Youth in Action, please visit http://4-h.org/parents/4-h-youth-in-action/.

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. 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 3000 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.

ABOUT BAYER

Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the Life Science fields of healthcare and agriculture. Its products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life. At the same time, the Group aims to create value through innovation, growth, and high earning power. Bayer is committed to the principles of sustainable development and to its social and ethical responsibilities as a corporate citizen. In fiscal 2015, the Group employed around 117,000 people and had sales of EUR 46.3 billion. Capital expenditures amounted to EUR 2.6 billion, R&D expenses to EUR 4.3 billion. These figures include those for the high-tech polymers business, which was floated on the stock market as an independent company named Covestro on October 6, 2015. For more information, go to www.bayer.com/.

Today’s youth are digital natives who strive to make their mark. In 4-H we’re deeply committed to providing them with the tools to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. It’s why we built CLOVER by 4-H, our new e-learning platform, which features content from more than 100 land-grant universities across Cooperative Extension to encourage hands-on learning for young people.

This month, we’re joining forces with Netflix on a CLOVER by 4-H x Spy Kids: Armageddon collaboration that leverages the power of technology and entertainment to spark curiosity, creativity, and learning – anytime, anywhere.

Premiering on Netflix today, Spy Kids: Armageddon was written, produced, and directed by Robert Rodriguez and stars Gina Rodriguez, Zachary Levi, Everly Carganilla, and Connor Esterson. As a proud Latino, on this Hispanic Heritage Month, I’m incredibly honored to be associated with this partnership. The guiding principle behind this partnership is simple: harness the power of entertainment and education to instill a passion for STEM in young minds.

Drawing inspiration from the thrilling adventures of the film, 4-H has crafted a compelling virtual escape room debuting on CLOVER today. #GAMECLOVER is a bespoke activity developed by Utah State University Extension that exposes kids to the magic of game design and programming. By engaging with this activity, learners will discover how the fascinating world of gaming seamlessly intertwines with the realms of mathematics, coding, and physics.

To help get into ‘spy mode’, Robert Rodriguez lent his voice and talents to CLOVER promotional content encouraging all kids and their parents to ‘level up’ with #GAMECLOVER. Netflix also extended exclusive invites to select screenings of the film before its release on the streaming platform. 4-H kids and families in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Phoenix, and Pittsburgh were treated to a unique experience that was more than just entertainment. By providing an early glimpse, Netflix helped us leave a profound impression on young, STEM-curious hearts and minds.

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The collaboration between 4-H and Netflix through Spy Kids: Armageddon and CLOVER by 4-H is a testament to the boundless possibilities that emerge when purpose-driven organizations and influential brands unite their resources.

#GAMECLOVER is just one example of the content on CLOVER that highlights the excitement and innovation that accompany fields such as engineering, technology, and space exploration. Our hope is that CLOVER inspires a generation of future scientists, engineers, and inventors.

Here’s a snapshot of what families can expect from the platform:

  • 20 Learning Categories: With lessons spanning computer science, cooking & baking, personal finance, animal science, robotics, and more, CLOVER caters to a diverse range of ages and interests. Examples include:
    • Cipher Space – Brought to you by Clemson University and United States Space Force
    • Build a Nest for Native Bees – Brought to you by Iowa State University and USDA
    • Charge It! – Brought to you by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Charles Schwab
  • Expert-Driven Content: Backed by top-tier experts from Cooperative Extension and leading land grant-universities (including HBCUs), CLOVER’s content ensures high-quality learning experiences.
  • Interactive Engagement: CLOVER turns learning into an adventure. It’s not just about absorbing information; it’s about engaging with it through interactive activities, some even featuring gamified content and augmented reality.
  • Virtual Meets Reality: CLOVER goes beyond the virtual realm, as a tool that can be integrated with local 4-H clubs to bridge the gap between online learning and real-world engagement.
  • More Computer Science: Thanks to our partners at Google, over 40 exciting activities focused on computer science pathways are coming to CLOVER in 2024.

CLOVER gives us an exciting new tool to help shape a world where curiosity thrives, innovation reigns, and young minds emerge as the torchbearers of progress. Together, we can inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of trailblazers, problem solvers, and changemakers.

Join us in shaping a future where innovation knows no bounds!

#Opportunity4All

As the mom of two Gen Z children, I know firsthand the challenges that our young people are facing, from the lingering impacts of the global pandemic and an ongoing mental health crisis, to the ever-evolving technological landscape. But, even in the face of tremendous change and uncertainty, this young generation has incredible promise: they are filled with purpose, they embrace diversity, they care about their communities, and they drive innovation.

In 4-H, we believe opportunity should not be pre-determined by any person’s circumstance. Our mission is to inspire all young people to thrive and achieve. Too many of America’s youth are lacking the opportunities that prepare them to lead in life and career. That’s why we are thrilled to bring Cooperative Extension’s 4-H program to even more young people with CLOVER by 4-H.

CLOVER is a digital learning platform that encourages hands-on learning in a fun and accessible way. Developed by Cooperative Extension and our network of land-grant universities, CLOVER’s content spans more than 20 subject areas, including STEM, emotional wellbeing, financial literacy, and career readiness. With both free and paid subscriptions, CLOVER is another way to ensure that young people everywhere have access to high-quality 4-H programming.

Key Things to Know About CLOVER

  • 220+ online activities: CLOVER has a robust catalog of exciting activities for everyone ages 5-18.
  • Content developed by experts at Cooperative Extension and our network of land-grant universities: From space exploration to the science of pollination to stress management, the information and activities provided through CLOVER come directly from some of the nation’s top academics, innovators, and leaders in these fields.
  • Interactive content and gamification: CLOVER is designed to be as fun and rewarding as it is educational. Users can customize their CLOVER experience to their interests and earn pins as they complete the interactive activities, some of which include gamified content and augmented reality.
  • Integration with local 4-H clubs: Linking online learning with real-life programming at 4-H clubs, CLOVER goes steps beyond basic math and reading platforms to spark young people’s passion for learning and prepare them for success in their lives. The data from CLOVER users will also inform local 4-H programming to create an integrated, educational environment for all 4-H’ers.

To kick off the launch of CLOVER, we have partnered with Netflix on an activity tied to the new movie Spy Kids: Armageddon. #GAMECLOVER builds on key themes of the movie by teaching young people the basics of coding and game design using an ‘escape room’ format. By expanding upon the popular Spy Kids experience, the #GAMECLOVER activity is an approachable way for kids to take an interest in STEM.

In the coming months, CLOVER users can continue their online STEM education with a collection of computer science activities ranging from computer basics to augmented reality, supported by Google.

CLOVER furthers our mission of equipping millions of 4-H’ers with the skills and confidence they need to excel in future careers and help solve the world’s biggest challenges. We look forward to seeing young people use CLOVER to spark creativity, explore future career paths, and grow their passion for learning.

To discover more and sign up for CLOVER, visit 4-h.org/clover.

Conversations with more than 80 funders, nonprofit leaders, and other experts highlight the urgency and mindset shifts needed to unlock capital and invest in the region.

BOSTON—August 24, 2023—Funders with fresh mindsets have a timely opportunity to invest in the Black rural South and help the region access large-scale funding that has the potential to fuel economic mobility, according to a new research study published today by The Bridgespan Group and National 4-H Council.

Of the approximately 200 rural counties in the South with Black populations of 25 percent or more (“the Black rural South”), all but two land in the bottom half for upward mobility for young people, previous Bridgespan and National 4-H Council research found. Yet these communities, with rich social and cultural capital, have contributed disproportionately to building the nation’s wealth and have tremendous ability to continue contributing to opportunity in our country with investment, particularly in our youth.

Mike Soskis, Bridgespan principal and co-author of the report, says, “The opportunities for impact are there: We’re seeing some funders moving from framings or misconceptions that deter investment to mindsets that can help fuel economic mobility for young people. And they’re noticing the tremendous opportunities and leaders in the region.”

According to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report, approximately 30 percent of Black residents in non-metro areas live in poverty—a higher rate than any other race or ethnic group, urban or non-urban.

The Black rural South also sits at the intersection of three philanthropic funding challenges, according to the new study: Rural communities see less funding than their metro counterparts; the South has historically been substantially underfunded; and leaders of color systemically receive less funding than white leaders.

“Still, in our conversations with more than 80 funders, nonprofit leaders, 4-H staff at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), researchers, and field experts, we found much to be excited about: Caring communities and innovative organizations are employing a number of promising approaches to support economic mobility for young people in the Black rural South,” says Angie Estevez Prada, Bridgespan consultant and report co-author.

The report highlights examples from leading funders in the region and articulates four mindset shifts more philanthropists must make to take advantage of the numerous opportunities that exist:

  1. The Black rural South is likely more integral to funders’ existing work than it might appear—and worthy of a special look. Funders seeking to move the needle on equity and economic mobility in the U.S. cannot be successful without addressing this high-need region, which is closely tied to the country as a whole through migration and wide-reaching public policy.
  2. One committed funder can make a difference while field testing approaches for more enduring change. There are many entry points for funding, including strengthening schools, broadband access, cradle-to-career supports, and even direct cash transfers. Each opportunity needs more funding to test which strategies will work best in places of persistent poverty.
  3. The social return on investment in the Black rural South is high if philanthropy is willing to think about impact differently. Advancing economic mobility in the Black rural South requires depth, not breadth. Funders willing to invest in smaller populations and exercise staying power can reach entire communities and truly change systems.
  4. Funders have excellent partners for giving in the Black rural South—if they know where to look. Funding in the region is highly relational; many local intermediaries know what communities want and need and can work with movement leaders to direct funding. The report highlights potential partners, including HBCUs and national networks with affiliates in the region, that are already working with young people–and could do much more with additional funding.

“Creating pathways to opportunity for young people in the Black rural South is difficult. But for funders willing to adopt these mindsets, this is an area where even one funder, especially one funder, can help enact positive change,” says Tay Moore, former member of National 4-H Council’s Youth Alumni Advisory Committee and Board of Trustees. “The Black rural South is ready. The region is hungry for change and deserving of investment.”

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Melvin John Thompson was a genuine, 4-H-grown leader. He taught teens how to pursue peace through understanding and to strengthen ties through civic engagement. He turned the power of positive youth development – which was central to his life – into a catalyst for change in the international community. While I didn’t have the pleasure of working with Mel, I’ve seen the beautiful fruits of his labor.

During my career at National 4-H Council, I’ve met countless prominent alumni who were inspired by his passion, influenced by his leadership, and impacted by his mentorship. From government officials to corporate leaders in agriculture, he instilled in others the importance of service and connection while sharing from his abundance of knowledge.

Mel’s leadership of the International 4-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) Association is legendary. The program attracted high levels of talent and gained prominence in Washington under his management; but even so, Mel was humble about his role in its success – always pointing to the incredible accomplishments of our 4-H youth. Over the course of 20 years, Mel empowered thousands of young people to have an integral role in international relations.

Mel passed away last month leaving behind his beloved family and a powerful legacy. I asked Don Floyd – Former President and CEO of National 4-H Council and a personal friend and mentor – to share his memories of Mel. Here are his reflections:

By the time I joined National 4-H Council in 1991, Mel was already retired from his work with IFYE. Everyone knew Mel as the thoughtful mentor, the guru, the father figure. He meant so much to these young 4-H’ers who were part of the international program.

When I started exploring the potential of a Global 4-H Network with 4-H programs around the world in the mid-2000s , Mel was the wise counselor who helped me navigate international waters. He had a particularly warm spot for Council from his time as an associate and had a deep understanding of 4-H, so he wanted to do what he could to help our programs succeed. One of the ways he did this was by introducing us to the right people. For example, he connected me with Ambassador Dan Mozena at the State Department. Dan would open doors for me and for Council like you wouldn’t believe – and that’s all through the connection with Mel.

Mel would do anything for “the Clover” and always had his heart in the right place. It was a pleasure to know him and an honor to partner with him in creating a better world for young people through 4-H.

4-H was a family tradition for Mel. His great grandmother started the Ravenna 4-H Club in 1925 and his mother was heavily involved in 4-H. He joined as a young boy in 1943, won the State 4-H Achievement Award in 1951, worked for Michigan State University Extension for many years, and then went on to hold leadership roles within 4-H at both the national and international level. His accomplishments didn’t go unnoticed, as he was inducted into Michigan State University’s Emerald Clover Society and the National 4-H Hall of Fame.

In fact, Mel’s foundational 4-H experience is part of what made him an incredible leader with unparalleled character and integrity. During his Hall of Fame induction in 2012, Mel shared that 4-H “provided the whole focus for [his] life.” I’m so grateful that, for all that he credits to his 4-H experience, he chose to give back to 4-H youth and the global community ten-fold.

Mel will be remembered for many things: for his character, his friendship, his military service, his prominent roles in 4-H and the U.S. Peace Corps, and even for his “Michigan-famous 4-H Pineapple Upside Down Cake Demonstration.” But the most enduring part of this legacy is the profound impact he had on so many lives, young and old alike.

When someone makes a positive difference that has outward influence, it’s often called a “ripple effect.” And for Mel, those ripples have crossed oceans – bringing youth together from across the globe – and will continue to spread as his legacy impacts generations to come.

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4‑H Alum Avery Williamson - A Day in the Life

New York Jets linebacker and Tennessee 4‑H Alumnus Avery Williamson is joined by Ohio 4‑H member Joyona for a Day in the Life experience. Avery gives Joyona a tour of his home and farm, while sharing his 4‑H experience and passion for agriculture. The experience is sponsored by Nationwide.

4‑H Alum Charlie Kimball - A Day in the Life

A group of Michigan 4‑H’ers spent a day with IndyCar driver and California 4‑H alum, Charlie Kimball at the Detroit Grand Prix for an exciting Day in the Life experience where they learned about the STEM behind racing.

4‑H Alum Jackie Joyner-Kersee - A Day in the Life

Illinois 4‑H’er Caleb joins Olympic legend and gold medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee for an exciting Day in the Life experience where they explore urban agriculture.

4‑H Alum Jose Hernandez - A Day in the Life
4‑H Alum Aubrey Plaza - A Day in the Life

4‑H Grown alumna Aubrey Plaza is promoting her new film, and she brought Delaware 4‑H’er Andrew along for the ride in the newest “Day in the Life” experience.

4‑H Alum Jennifer Nettles - A Day in the Life

Georgia 4‑H’er Callista hangs out with 4‑H Grown alumna and National 4‑H Spokesperson Jennifer Nettles in a new “Day in the Life” experience.

4‑H Alum Carla Hall - A Day in the Life

Carla Hall, co-host of ABC’s The Chew and proud 4‑H Grown alumna from Tennessee, pays it forward to collegiate New York 4‑H’er Jasmine.

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Let's Catch Up

Visit our Alumni Resources page to check out what’s new and connect with the alumni community.

Tashina Red Hawk receives $5,000 scholarship, sponsored by Bayer, and will serve as 4-H’s national youth spokesperson for Agriculture


Chevy Chase, MD (October 4, 2021)
– In celebration of National 4-H Week, National 4-H Council today announced that Tashina Red Hawk, 17, of Mission, South Dakota, is the winner of the 2022 4-H Youth in Action Award for Agriculture, sponsored by Bayer. Red Hawk is recognized nationally for her drive to inspire her peers and give back to her Rosebud Sioux Tribe community through charitable veterinary work. Launched in 2010, the 4-H Youth in Action Awards honor 4-H’ers who have applied the knowledge gained in 4-H to create a lasting impact in their communities.

Red Hawk recognized at an early age that while caring for the animal nation was important to her tribe, many people living on the Reservation did not have the financial means to care for their pets. The Rosebud community faces economic hardships, and many people struggle to provide for their families, let alone their pets. When she saw the opportunity to help her community through the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Animal Clinic, she immediately got involved. Red Hawk has been an integral volunteer for the last three years at the monthly charitable spay, neuter, and vaccination animal center. Through Red Hawk’s impactful leadership, she has risen through every possible role at the clinic – from her early days conducting pet registration to the responsibilities of surgical assistance and managing youth volunteers today.

This volunteer work has solidified Red Hawk’s passion for veterinary science, although she credits 4-H for her eagerness to learn, confidence to lead others, and desire to give back to her community.

“The leadership and confidence 4-H has instilled in me has been life-changing,” Red Hawk explains. “I could study and read about animal science all day, but without 4-H I would still be too scared to lead our youth volunteers or step up in surgery at my young age. 4-H gave me my love of understanding animals, but more importantly, it gave me people skills – to work with others, give vet science presentations, answer patients’ questions, and be engaged in my community.”

A senior in high school, Red Hawk plans to continue her education to earn her doctorate in veterinary medicine. She intends to return home to her Reservation and open and operate a full-time charitable animal clinic.

“Tashina is a stellar example of a young person who has taken her passion for animals and her community and built skills to create a pathway for a long-lasting and fulfilling career goal like veterinary science,” said Jackie Applegate, President of Bayer Crop Science North America. “At Bayer, we are proud to support many young people – just like Tashina – as they learn and develop leadership skills that can make a positive difference in agriculture and in our world in the years ahead.”

Red Hawk will receive a $5,000 scholarship for higher education and will serve as an advocate and spokesperson for 4-H Agriculture programming. She is joined by three other 2022 Youth in Action Pillar Winners, Brianna Attey Mouanjo of New York (Civic Engagement), Kristin Osika of New Jersey (Healthy Living), and Dhruv Rebba of Illinois (STEM).

To learn more about the 4-H Youth in Action Awards and to view the other pillar winners from around the country, please visit: Here.

This week’s collection of CLOVER activities is all about animals! Visit the links to learn more about the activity, and don’t forget, check back every Monday for new ideas and hands-on learning resources for kids of all ages.


Animal U

Recommended age: Grades 3-12

Courtesy of Iowa State University, Iowa 4‑H

This innovative online learning tool to engage kids in learning about the science behind livestock production. Explore 85+ lessons in beef, swine, and careers that youth may access at any time!

Animal 101

Virtual Showmanship Clinics

Recommended age: Grades 6-12

Courtesy of North Dakota State University, North Dakota 4‑H

Watch these virtual showmanship clinics with videos to learn about topics covering sheep, meat goats, swine, poultry, cattle, and rabbits!

Watch and learn!


More Weekly Lessons & Resources:

Gardening & Plant Science

Coding & Computers

Mind & Body

Making, Media & Visual Arts

Virtual 4‑H Camp, Painting & Chemical Reactions

Helpers, Heroes & History


 

 

It’s harvesting season! Now is a perfect time to teach kids about gardening and plant science, explored in this week’s collection of 4‑H at Home activities. Visit the links to learn more about the activity, and don’t forget, check back every Monday for new ideas and hands-on learning resources for kids of all ages.


Parts of a Plant

Recommended Age: Grades Pre-K-5

Courtesy of Purdue University, Indiana 4‑H 

Explore plant science by watching a video on the different parts of a plant!

Plant Anatomy 101

Self-Watering Planter

Recommended Age: Grades 3-12

Courtesy of New Mexico State University, New Mexico 4‑H

Watch this video to learn how to make a self-watering planter using a 2-liter bottle and a piece of cotton rope!

Make your planter

Gardening to Give

Recommended Age: Grades Pre-K-12

Courtesy of Iowa State University, Iowa 4‑H

Feed your club and community with weekly, hands-on activities focused on gardening and growing plants.

Give the gift of gardening

Bean in a Bottle

Recommended Age: Grades 3-5

Courtesy of Bayer & 2018 Youth in Action Agriculture Pillar Winner, Serena Woodard

Through this 4‑H STEM Lab activity, kids will learn about the life cycle of a plant and discover what their plant needs to survive. They will also learn about innovative gardens that don’t require going outside. This activity showcases how agriculture and science go hand-in-hand.

Watch your bean grow


More Weekly Lessons & Resources:

Coding & Computers

Mind & Body

Making, Media & Visual Arts

Virtual 4‑H Camp, Painting & Chemical Reactions

Helpers, Heroes & History

DNA, Fruit Batteries & Water Camp

This week’s activity theme is making, media and music! Visit the links to learn more about the activity and check back every Monday for new ideas and hands-on, educational resources for all young people.


Virtual Visual Arts

Recommended age: Grades 3-5

Courtesy of Texas A&M Agrilife Extension, Texas 4‑H

Learn about the elements and principles of design and test skills in creating and designing visual art projects!

Learn More!

Maker Monday Video Series

Recommended age: Grades 9-12

Courtesy of University of Illinois, Illinois 4‑H

Learn how to use a 3D printer to create a Mandalorian armor or a flying Baby Yoda drone carriage, along with other exciting STEM ideas!

Start Making!

DIY Bird Feeder

Recommended age: Grades Pre-K-12

Courtesy of University of Maine, Maine 4‑H

Learn how to make a DIY bird feeder using an orange and other items found around the home!

Make Your Bird Feeder!

Decorative Window Cling

Recommended age: Grades Pre-K-12

Courtesy of Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma 4‑H

Learn how to make decorative window clings by following along with this simple step-by-step video!

Start Decorating!

Event Opportunity: FilmFest 4‑H

Missouri 4‑H is hosting the 10th annual FilmFest 4‑H! For the first time ever, the 2020 national 4‑H film festival is going digital.  Learn from 4‑H professionals, network with other youth who share your creative interests, and join in as we screen youth-produced films.  FilmFest 4‑H takes place August 1-2, 2020 and is produced for youth ages 11-18.  Your All-Access Pass is only $35 and gives you access to all FilmFest events and festivities.  To get your pass, submit a film, or find more information please visit http://filmfest4h.org. The deadline to register or submit a film is July 17, 2020.


More Weekly Lessons:

Virtual 4‑H Camp, Painting & Chemical Reactions

Helpers, Heroes & History

DNA, Fruit Batteries & Water Camp

Creative Writing, Abstract Art & Jewelry Making

Gardening, Exercise & Wildlife

Water Bottle Rockets, Bicycles & Embryology