Benefits of 4-H

Kids Build Life Skills Through Hands-On Learning

Kids build life skills by leading hands-on projects in areas like science, health, agriculture and, civic engagement – helping them to grow confidence, independence, resilience, and compassion. Adult mentors provide a positive environment where they learn by doing. This 4‑H experience is delivered by a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation.

4‑H Is Always Here

4‑H’s positive youth development programs are available where you need them and welcome children who want to have fun, learn and grow. 4‑H at Home provides critical learning resources for kids and teens while they’re home from school during COVID-19.

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4‑H Grows True Leaders

4‑H empowers young people to be true leaders. True leaders are young people who have confidence; know how to work well with others; can endure through challenges; and will stick with a job until it gets done. In 4‑H, we believe true leaders aren’t born – they’re grown.

4‑H programs hands-on approach gives young people guidance, tools and encouragement, and then puts them in the driver’s seat to make great things happen. Independent research proves the unparalleled impact of the 4‑H experience.

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The 4‑H Difference

Life Skills to Lead

4‑H’s hands-on approach is proven to grow life skills like confidence, independence, resilience and compassion through stages and developed through experiences, not instruction.

The result? Kids who are empowered with the skills to lead for a lifetime.

Hands-On Experiences

More young people need the kind of hands-on, youth-led experiences that 4‑H programs provide. Experiences where they learn by doing, grow from failure, express their ideas and use their influence to drive positive outcomes. Adult mentors provide guidance, ask questions, share learnings and encourage.

University Backed

4‑H reaches nearly six million young people through Cooperative Extension – a community of more than 100 public universities and 3,000 local offices. Programs are delivered by more than 3,500 4‑H professionals and more than 500,000 volunteers.

Support the FOURWARD Fund

Kids need us now more than ever. Help 4‑H ensure kids and families in need have access to educational resources during COVID-19.

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4-H at Home

4‑H at Home provides hands-on, educational activities for kids and teens to do while they’re home from school during COVID-19. Get our latest 4‑H at Home Activity Guide, activities from 4‑H Land-Grant Universities, and more.

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Join the 4-H Alumni Community

Show your 4‑H pride! Join the 4‑H Alumni Community and get access to the latest 4‑H content, opportunities to connect with other alumni, and more.

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Discover 4-H Youth Voices

In 4‑H, we believe in the power of young people. 4‑H Youth Voices highlights diverse perspectives from youth who are creating positive change in the world around us.