People often ask what impact 4-H Youth Development has on its participants. We know from our experiences that 4-H changes lives, helping youth to become confident, mature adults ready to succeed in today’s challenging world. Studies show that youth participating in 4-H do better in school, are more motivated to help others, feel safe to try new things, and develop lasting friendships.
Each year, roughly half a million youth from urban, suburban, and rural
communities across New York participate in 4-H experiences. 4-H programs are
offered in a number of research-tested outreach strategies: school enrichment
and after-school programs, camp settings and community clubs. Additionally,
fairs and festivals offer youth an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and
earn recognition for their best work.
The fundamental 4-H ideal of practical, learn-by-doing experiences
encourages youth to experiment, innovate, and think independently. Youth learn
leadership, citizenship, and life skills through more than 1,000 projects with
topics as varied as rocketry, GPS mapping, DNA analysis, public speaking,
photography, nutrition, and community service.
And finally, as the youth program of Cornell Cooperative Extension, 4-H’s
connection to Cornell University and other land-grant institutions sets us apart
from other youth serving organizations. Access to Cornell’s resources gives
young people an opportunity to make connections for college and beyond.
Greg Stevens
Extension Program Leader, 4-H & Family and Consumer Sciences
grs9@cornell.edu
518-885-8995 ext. 2210
Last updated September 1, 2023