As we kick off National 4-H Week 2024, it’s time to reflect on the impact of this nationwide youth development program. From Oct. 7 to 12, millions of 4-H members, alumni, volunteers, and supporters will come together to celebrate the accomplishments of this vibrant community.
The National 4-H Council has already released its toolkit for this year’s celebration, complete with the theme for 2024, designed to highlight how 4-H prepares youth for success in both college and their future careers.
The official proclamation, signed by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, underscores the importance of this annual event in fostering leadership, civic engagement, and academic achievement in young people across the nation.
4-H: A stepping stone to life, college, and careers
The 4-H program is more than just a set of activities or clubs. It’s a proven pathway to educational and professional success. Through hands-on learning experiences in science, agriculture and public speaking, 4-H members develop the confidence and competencies necessary for thriving in today’s competitive job market.
Below are a few examples of how 4-H programs are bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application, ensuring that 4-H members are equipped with the skills they need to succeed in college and the workforce.
Production agriculture is at the forefront of technology. Three Mississippi State University Extension programs have been designed to inspire youth to seek careers in the agricultural sciences. Nearly 400 youths have participated in the Science Experiments program and increased their knowledge of agronomic practices, the scientific method, planning and development skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking skills.
Each year, Michigan State University Extension hosts 4-H Exploration Days on the MSU campus. This overnight, pre-college program strives to prepare youth for their future, introducing them to new ideas and career paths as they develop important life skills and learn more about themselves and their passions. Attendees live the life of a college student, staying in the dorms and choosing from more than 100 courses taught by MSU faculty, 4-H staff, and volunteers across campus. In 2023, 4-H Exploration Days was attended by 712 youth, 59 percent of whom had never attended the event before. Learn more.
Gunnison County 4-H in Colorado hosted a series of six Juntos 4-H Family Engagement Night dinners for Latino high school students and their families. Conducted in Spanish, participants learned about communicating with schools, setting goals, graduating from high school, applying for college or trade school and financing higher education.
Colorado State University Extension staff worked to connect with local resources and adapt the Juntos 4-H curriculum to meet local needs. Colorado State University, Western Colorado University, and Gunnison Watershed School District provided up-to-date information about local educational opportunities for youth after high school. Read more.
National 4-H Week 2024: What to expect
This year’s National 4-H Week will be marked by events and activities across the country, showcasing the talents and accomplishments of 4-H members. Whether through community service projects, leadership workshops, or educational fairs, the week will shine a spotlight on how 4-H is shaping the future.
In addition to the local and state events, keep an eye out for national campaigns that emphasize how 4-H empowers young people to lead with heart and take on challenges with resilience.
Each year, a national theme is selected, around which the week’s activities are focused. The 2024 theme is Beyond Ready. As part of the initiative, 4-H is accepting donations for Beyond Ready to help youth tackle what’s ahead in school, work, and in their communities.
Happy National 4-H Week! Let’s celebrate the youth who are making a difference today and preparing to lead tomorrow.
