COVID-19 and 4-H Youth Development Update

By _Amaya_Collins_ March 21, 2020

Across the country, communities are facing unforeseen challenges due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19). For 4‑H, our network of 500,000 volunteers and 3,500 4‑H professionals have had to quickly understand the impact of COVID-19 and respond with swift action to support our young people and communities. While this time of uncertainty has presented new obstacles to navigate, our commitment to positive youth development is unwavering and 4‑H remains present to support the six million young people we serve in every county and parish and all kids who need educational resources, mentorship and a sense of belonging in this time.

Through our community of more than 100 universities and America’s Cooperative Extension System, 4‑H is working diligently to continue to fulfill our mission because our work is too important, especially now, as communities across America experience the impact of school closures. We recognize it can be stressful for parents and families to find resources available to maintain a sense of normalcy and make sure kids don’t get off track in their daily development. And while some schools are implementing a virtual learning plan, others don’t have the resources to continue student lessons. 4‑H is committed to providing free and low-cost online and print educational resources to support 4‑H’ers and families while schools and clubs remain closed. Please visit 4‑H.org/Legacy to learn more.

We will continue our work to ensure young people and communities have the resources to stay connected and engaged throughout this time. We don’t know what the coming weeks will bring, but what we do know is that Cooperative Extension’s 4‑H program is prepared to rally around our young people. Working together we will get through this and our young people will thrive.