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Program Goals

The four Hs (head, heart, hands, and health) represent four basic human needs: independence, belonging, generosity, and mastery. Research shows that youth whose basic needs are met in positive ways are likely to grow into active citizens and contributing members of their families and communities.

4-H helps children fulfill these needs. By combining project activities with opportunities to go to camp, publicly show their work, travel, host international youth, and attend meetings and events at Cornell University, 4-H provides a framework on which young people can build self-confidence, responsibility, and generosity.

Curriculum. Subject matter skills taught in projects are the foundation for the youth development that occurs in 4-H. Learning to prepare meals, give a presentation, repair machinery, ride a horse, and care for others are just a few of the skills taught in 4-H that can be of economic, social, and/or personal value to youth in their future.

Materials for project work come from Cornell and other land grant universities. Projects combine research-based information with youth development practices.  Need a resource?  Visit the on-line 4-H Resource Directory.

 

Events.  Trips and events, which give youth opportunities to explore Cornell and other places allow youth an opportunity to connect with 4-H colleagues from across the state. 

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4-H Camps.   New York State 4-H camps provide opportunities for social, personal, and educational growth within the context of the natural environment. 

Youth Community Action.  Youth Community Action is signature program of Cornell Cooperative Extension, training youth and adult volunteers to make a difference in their community.

The City Project - The CITY Project uses YCA as an intentional process to promote civic engagement, workforce preparation, and asset development among youth.

Operation: Military Kids - New York.  As a part of a national effort, 4-H is supporting military families and deployed servicemen and women.   Want to help?  Resources, contacts and training are available.

Tractor Safety. 4-H Youth Development provides Tractor and Machinery Certification for youth 14 years and older.  This certification allows 14 and 15 year olds to legally operate tractors and machinery while off the family farm.  Farm safety awareness is a major focus.

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4-H Shooting Sports.  Introducing safe and responsible use of firearms and archery equipment opens valuable vocational and life-long recreational education.

 

  

About 4-H.  Last year in New York State, more than 17,700 4-H volunteers helped over 316,000 young people gain leadership experience, learn new life skills, and give back to their communities. 

Quote from Ontario County member:

“ I believe the things I am learning in

4-H are helping me prepare for a successful future in many ways.  Incorporating the 4-H pledge into my daily life has helped me gain respect for myself and others, how to speak publicly without feeling embarrassed, how to sew and prepare food.  Most of all 4-H has helped me become a more well-rounded person.”

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