4-H is the only federally authorized youth serving organization. It is also the largest youth serving organization in the country. It is a volunteer-led organization that reaches youth through a variety of programs in both rural and urban settings. 4-H provides fun, educational opportunities at the local, state, national, and international levels. 4-H programs are hands-on, age-appropriate, and university-based. 4-H helps youth improve their self-confidence; learn subject matter; and develop important skills including leadership, citizenship, communication, and decision-making that can be applied over a lifetime. For older teens, 4-H also offers opportunities to develop and test their leadership skills as 4-H volunteers and working with youth. For Adults, 4-H offers opportunities for training in a variety of areas including youth development, instruction, and more.

4-H programs are inclusive and open to everyone from 3rd to 12th grade. In clubs, individual groups may charge minimal fees to cover expenses, and some project areas may require extra investments for supplies, equipment, and travel. In schools and other settings, programs are free or the cost is minimal to cover instructional materials. Programs for the various age groups vary according to local county resources.

Contact the 4-H staff at your local Cooperative Extension Service county office. Or call, 1-888-EXT-INFO for the telephone number of your county office.

In Indiana, 4-H is part of the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service, and Nationally, it is part of the Extension Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Local leadership is provided by 4-H Youth Extension Educators and trained volunteers. The program is supported financially by county, state, and federal tax dollars.

They have FUN learning with new and old friends in clubs and classrooms, and at meetings, social activities, tours, trips, camps, and fairs. They learn about themselves and experience new challenges.