U.S. Sens. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and John Boozman (R-Ark.), Co-Chairs of the Senate 4-H Caucus, recently celebrated the adoption of their resolution designating October 7 through October 12 as National 4-H Week. This annual celebration highlights the vital role 4-H plays in youth development across the country.
Boozman, a longtime supporter of 4-H, emphasized the personal impact the organization had on his family, noting that all three of his daughters were active participants and state record book winners. He stated, “4-H has been a positive influence on generations of young people, which is why I am proud to join Chairwoman Stabenow in honoring the organization.”
4-H is the largest youth development program in the United States, reaching nearly 6 million young people through hands-on projects in health, science, agriculture, and civic engagement. The organization is a part of the Cooperative Extension System, associated with land-grant universities, and focuses on building leadership and life skills among young members.
Stabenow, a former 4-H member herself, shared how the organization prepares young people to become leaders in their communities.
“Through hands-on experience, 6 million 4-H’ers are learning the skills they need to tackle the critical issues we face today and in the future,” she said.
Joining Stabenow and Boozman in introducing the resolution were 38 other senators from both parties, highlighting the bipartisan support for 4-H. This recognition not only honors the organization’s past but encourages future generations to engage in 4-H’s meaningful and educational programs.
National 4-H Week provides an opportunity for communities to celebrate the accomplishments of 4-H members and encourage more youth to participate in the program, fostering the next generation of leaders.
Across the country, members will participate in community service projects, host open houses, and lead demonstrations in areas like agriculture, science, health, and civic engagement. Local clubs will celebrate with activities such as public speaking events, livestock exhibitions, and STEM workshops, giving youth a chance to demonstrate the skills they’ve developed through hands-on learning.
Members will also take to social media, sharing their personal 4-H stories and encouraging others to get involved, all while promoting the theme of the week. Some clubs will partner with local schools and businesses to host fundraising events, while others will engage in service projects like food drives and environmental cleanups.
