By: Dr. Charlene Jacobs
Assistant Director of 4-H Youth Development
Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service
University of Kentucky College of Agriculture
Kentucky 4-H Youth Development County Extension agents have a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of Kentucky youth in 120 counties in Kentucky. Through a variety of educational opportunities planned by 4-H agents and volunteers, Kentucky 4-Hers develop life skills that will equip them to make decisions as a youth and as an adult.
4-H agents and volunteers provide hands-on learning experiences in Family and Consumer Science, Agriculture, Leadership, Communication and Expressive Arts, Natural Resources, Science, Engineering and Technology, and Health for youth through 4-H Clubs, SPIN Clubs, special interest groups, school enrichment, afterschool groups, day camps, overnight camps and individual learning. Through these programs and other education activities, youth find their true passion, gain confidence and are engaged in their community.
Kentucky 4-H is more than activities. 4-H contributes to overall development of the youth involved in the program regardless of their background, social-economic status, race and gender. Positive youth development studies have affirmed that compared to other youth, 4-H youth are more likely to report better grades, have a higher levels of academic competence and are more engaged in school activities. They are two times more likely to go to college and more likely to pursue courses or careers in science, engineering, and/or computer technology.
4-Hers have healthier lifestyles in comparison to other youth such as regular exercise and physical activity and significantly lower drug, alcohol, and cigarette use than their peers. Through leadership opportunities offered through Kentucky 4-H, youth are four times more likely to contribute to their communities.
4-H agents and volunteers influence the youth of today and the leaders of tomorrow by offering educational programs to Kentucky youth that allow youth to find their passion, develop life skills, see the possibilities, and reach their dream.
My 4-H agent in Lee County, Melanie was so much more than just that. Show was a friend, a mentor and so much more. I was able to get to know her on a personal level and we became extremely close. I had a lot on my plate and she was there for me whenever I needed her and even when I didn’t know I needed her. I haven’t participated in about ten years but her and I are still very close.