What is 4-H?

The 4-H Youth Development program creates opportunities and supportive environments for youth and adults to become capable, competent, and caring citizens. The emphasis is on "hands-on" learning that focuses on the youth's area of interest. Programs are conducted with the help of parents, adult volunteer leaders, and professional staff who organize educational experiences using research-based information from the University of Kentucky. Kentucky 4-H believes in providing positive youth development experiences for all youth to experience belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. Youth participate in organized 4-H clubs, special interest and project groups, 4-H school enrichment programs, 4-H camp, and other special activities.

4-H is a youth organization committed to building outstanding leaders with marketable skills to succeed in today’s global society. 4-H empowers youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults. The four H's represent the idea of Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, which are the values members work on through fun and engaging programs.

4-H Motto: "To Make the Best Better"

4-H Slogan: "Learn by Doing"

How does 4-H benefit youth?

4-H’ers, regardless of their background, socio-economic status, race, or gender, benefit from their participation in Kentucky 4-H. Positive youth development studies have affirmed that compared to other youth, young people involved in 4-H are:

• Four times more likely to contribute to their communities. 

• Two times more likely to be civically active.

• Two times more likely to make healthier lifestyle choices.

• Two times more likely to participate in Science, Engineering, and Computer Technology programs during out-of-school time.

• 4-H girls are two times more likely (Grade 10) and nearly three times more likely (Grade 12) to take part in science programs compared to girls in other out-of-school time activities.