4‑H empowers young people with the skills to lead for a lifetime.
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. We are America’s largest youth development organization—empowering nearly six million young people across the U.S. and over 88,000 youth in Kansas with the skills to lead for a lifetime.
It’s a research-based experience that includes a mentor, a hands-on project, and a meaningful leadership opportunity. Based on their interests and guided by adult volunteers, youth develop their own pathway in 4‑H. They select from a broad menu of local 4‑H programs and projects. There are hands-on, learn by doing, opportunities for everyone.
Kansas 4-H is a vibrant youth development program for K-State Research and Extension. In 4-H, we are committed to providing positive dynamic learning experiences for as many young people as possible.
Ready to get started? Find a 4-H Club near you or Contact Kansas 4-H for more information.
4‑H is a Community
4‑H is delivered in partnership with local volunteers and resources, Kansas State Research and Extension, Kansas State University, and the larger National Cooperative Extension system — a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation that provides experiences where young people learn by doing. Kids complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture, and citizenship, in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Youth experience 4‑H in every county in the country —through community clubs, project clubs, SPIN clubs, after-school programs and 4‑H camps.
Local Programs, Statewide Partnership, National Reach
4‑H’s reach and depth is unmatched. Through our community of 100 public universities, 4‑H reaches kids in every corner of America – from urban neighborhoods to suburban schoolyards to rural farming communities. Our national network of 500,000 volunteers and 3,500 4‑H professionals provide caring and supportive mentoring to all 6 million 4‑H’ers, helping them grow into true leaders today and into the future. In Kansas, over 6,000 adult volunteers and professionals in all 105 Kansas counties grow life skills in youth who make valuable social and economic contributions in their communities.
The 4-H Way
4-H is committed to youth engagement using positive youth development (PYD). PYD engages youth within their communities, schools, organizations, peer groups, and families in a manner that is productive and constructive; recognizes, utilizes, and enhances young people’s strengths; and promotes positive outcomes for young people by providing opportunities, fostering positive relationships, and furnishing the support needed to build on their leadership strengths.
