What makes 4-H Possible?
In Florida, 4-H is part of the Florida Cooperative Extension Service based at the land-grant universitites. 4-H is tax supported. The combined efforts of the county, state and federal governments support 4-H to provide practical, educationally-researched based programs for everyday living and development of life skills among youth. Programs and activities are conducted through a partnership of local community volunteers and professional staff.
What are the advantages of being in 4-H?
4-H offers flexible programming to meet youth needs by empahsizing skill building processes and effective outcomes through quality curriculum that promotes positive values, social responsibility, and lifelong learning. Young people in 4-H have an opportunity to:
- develop as an individual;
- learn lifelong skills related to project/subject areas;
- make new friends through 4-H meetings, events, and activities;
- work with adult volunteer leaders;
- develop pride as they learn by doing;
- develop leadership skills, including the ability to speak before a group;
- explore projects that can lead to future careers.
A recent 4-H research study from Tufts University (Learner et al 2009) showed that youth enrolled in 4-H were 1.8 times more likely to attend college than peers enrolled in other youth development programs.
What experiences does 4-H provide for youth?
4-H helps youth learn to live and make a living through individual and group experiences.
