About 4-H

4-H is a worldwide youth development program available in every state and over eighty countries. It is open to all youth aged 5-to-19, who want to have fun, learn new skills, and explore the world.  In return, youth who participate in 4-H find a supportive environment and opportunities for hands-on or "experiential" learning about things that interest them.  They also get what all young people need to succeed in life--the confidence, compassion and connections with caring adults to make contributions to their communities.  The mission of Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development is to unleash the power of youth and adults through diverse opportunities that meet community needs.

Nationally 4-H is a community of 6 million young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. The 4-H community also includes 3,500 staff, 518,000 volunteers and 60 million alumni. 4-H'ers participate in fun, hands-on learning activities, supported by the latest research of land-grant universities, that are focused on three areas:

Mission Mandates

Civic Engagement - Civic engagement is the broadest mission mandate; it incorporates youth voice, leadership, respect, history, community youth development, STEM, and Healthy Lifestyles. 

Healthy Living - Rooted in the ecological model of Urie Bronfenbrenner, the NYS 4-H Healthy Living program is a holistic one that emphasizes nutrition and fitness, social-emotional wellness, and prevention of injury.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math - Kids who participate in science activities outside of the classroom are more likely to be comfortable with science. This link takes you to numerous 4-H Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) projects that give families science enrichment opportunities and connect kids to Cornell’s science outreach programs. 

Agriculture & Food Systems - The NYS 4-H Agriculture and Food Systems program engages youth and families in a variety of hands-on activities and experiences that cultivate an increased understanding and appreciation for agriculture and food systems within a positive youth development framework.

Learn More!

Find out more about the history of 4-H and what it can offer you by visiting the other pages on this site, then get in touch with a local 4-H staff person today!  We're looking forward to welcoming you to 4-H in our county!

Last updated July 10, 2023