4-H is a community for all kids!!
In 4‑H, we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us.
What is 4‑H?
4‑H is delivered by Cooperative Extension—a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation that provides experiences where young people learn by doing. For more than 100 years, 4‑H has welcomed young people of all beliefs and backgrounds, giving kids a voice to express who they are and how they make their lives and communities better.
Through life-changing 4‑H programs, nearly six million kids and teens have taken on critical societal issues, such as addressing community health inequities, engaging in civil discourse and advocating for equity and inclusion for all.
We Believe In:
- all young people’s potential
- developing young people who are empowered, confident, hard-working, determined, responsible and compassionate—seeing a world beyond themselves so that they have the life-long skills to succeed in college and career,
- ensuring access and equity for all
- the power of America’s leading public universities,
- the practice of positive youth development (PYD) by creating positive learning experiences,
- caring and trusted adult mentors who cultivate positive relationships with youth
- creating safe, diverse and inclusive environments
- meeting young people wherever they are
4-H Programming
4‑H reaches almost six million young people through our community of 100 public universities. Programs are delivered by 3,500 4‑H professionals and 500,000 volunteers. Young people experience 4‑H through school and community clubs, in-school and after-school programs and 4‑H camps.
Based on their interests and guided by adult mentors, youth develop their own pathway in 4‑H. They select from a broad menu of local 4‑H programs. There are hands-on, learn-by-doing, opportunities for everyone.
Click here to learn about the 4-H Program at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County.
Not from Orange County New York?