Achievement Program

Achievement Levels

The Emerald 4-H Award is a prestigious recognition for exceptional 4-H members who have fully embraced the hands-on, learn-by-doing opportunities provided by the KY 4-H Youth Development Program. These outstanding youth have developed invaluable life skills, including leadership, citizenship, and communication, through a variety of experiences within the core content curriculum. Their commitment to being civically engaged and their ability to contribute to society exemplify the spirit of the 4-H mission: building contributing, productive, and self-directed individuals.

Emerald 4-H Award Winners embody the core values of 4-H, always striving to Make the Best Better. They are not only well-rounded and dedicated but also enthusiastic about taking on the responsibility of representing the KY 4-H Foundation and the KY 4-H Youth Development Program as ambassadors.

In addition to this prestigious honor, each winner receives an all-expenses-paid Cultural Immersion Experience in Washington, D.C., a $1,000 college scholarship, and a crystal trophy. These exceptional young leaders embody the values of 4-H and represent the very best of Kentucky youth. Their futures are bright as they continue to make a lasting impact on their communities and beyond.

At the Gold Level, the Kentucky 4-H Foundation proudly awards recipients a full scholarship to 4-H Teen Conference, along with a special Kentucky 4-H backpack to recognize their achievement. Additionally, four outstanding Gold Level youth are selected to attend the National 4-H Conference, where they represent Kentucky and contribute to shaping the future of 4-H nationwide.

At the Silver Level, the Kentucky 4-H Foundation proudly provides a partial scholarship to 4-H Teen Conference, helping youth continue their leadership journey. In addition, 20 outstanding Silver Level recipients are selected to represent Kentucky at National 4-H Congress—an unforgettable opportunity for growth, service, and connection with 4-H’ers from across the nation.

At the Bronze Level of the Kentucky 4-H Achievement Program, the Kentucky 4-H Foundation proudly sponsors a partial scholarship for recipients to attend 4-H Teen Conference or Teen Summit. This support helps young leaders take the next step in their 4-H journey by opening the door to transformative leadership and learning experiences.

A Prestigious Honor

Each year, four deserving young individuals are selected as Emerald 4-H Award Winners. In addition to this prestigious honor, each winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C., a $1,000 college scholarship, and a crystal trophy. These young leaders demonstrate what it means to embody the values of 4-H, and their futures are bright as they continue to make a positive impact on the world around them.