4-H youth development: connecting kids to Cornell, learning, and leadership.

4-H is the youth development program of Cornell Cooperative Extension, linking the resources of Cornell University to young people. Nationally--as well as in New York State--4-H Youth Development creates educational opportunities for youngsters to develop skills, practical knowledge, and wisdom through observing, doing, and reflecting on experiences. "Learning by doing" is a model that has been active and successful for 100 years. Supportive environments encourage diverse youth and adults to reach their fullest potential as capable, competent, and caring citizens.

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In one example, 4-H educators in Lewis County worked with fourth graders, food processors, and a grocery store in a youth consumer curriculum pilot study. The 10-year-olds learned about consumer and management topics covering nutrition, meal planning, and math. The Grow and Learn After-School Program in Livingston County helps at-risk middle school youth, resulting in improved school attendance and academic achievement, reduced police reports and discipline referrals, and alumni of the program who return as responsible volunteers. Sullivan County 4-H Youth Development staff formed a team with a local animal-control officer, dog trainer, and animal-shelter operator to face the challenge of many unwanted shelter animals. In the dog obedience program, participating youth were trained in animal science and animal handling and participating dogs became more adoptable.

Young people who participate in New York State 4-H clubs do better in school, are more motivated to help others, and achieve more than non-members, according to a two-year Cornell study. In the 4-H Club Study, 4-H youth were compared to two national groups--as studied in the survey Search Institute Profiles of Student Life: Attitudes and Behaviors--based on developmental assets such as educational aspiration, achievement, motivation, the desire to help others, school grades, self-esteem, decision making, the importance of having a value system, level of interaction/communication with adults, and the ability to make friends. When controlling for age, gender, family structure, and father's education, New York 4-Hers scored higher than both Search Institute groups.

New York youth participate in Cornell Cooperative Extension's 4-H clubs, school enrichment activities, after-school programs, camps, and events. They reside in towns and small cities, rural areas, suburbs, cities, and farms. In 2003, a total of 14,300 4-H volunteers helped more than 387,500 young people gain leadership experience, learn new life skills, and give back to the community. 4-H Youth Development brings young people and their families together with volunteers, community members, and professionals in a powerful partnership where all involved learn and grow.

www.cce.cornell.edu/4h