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 provides. 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.

Help Us Inspire More Kids to Do

For a limited time, every dollar you give to 4‑H youth will be matched up to $100K! Help us reach more kids with the hands-on learning experiences they deserve in life and career.

Double Your Impact

4-H Study of Positive Youth Development

Highly regarded as the first-ever research project of its kind, the 4‑H Study of Positive Youth Development defined and measured positive youth development. Compared to their peers, the report shows that youth involved in 4‑H programs excel in several areas.

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Inspire Kids to Do

Download the 4‑H Inspire Kids to Do Activity Guide with 60 fun, inspirational activities to help your kids grow into True Leaders.

These activities in agriculture, STEM, community service, healthy living and more will help kids gain the skills they need to be successful in life—and have fun along the way.  

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