During times of calm or turmoil, stress or change, youth need an outlet to find their purpose and know they are appreciated for who they are, regardless of what is going on in their community, country, or world around them. Have you ever considered what it must feel like to be a military child and have your family completely relocate states and/or countries every few years? What about the children of the low-income family down the street that are moving, again, because they cannot afford rent? Then there is the child who is shuffled between grandparents’ and parents’ homes based on lack of daycare options or the ability to pay the high cost of daycare. Not every family structure is perfect and with extremely demanding schedules of both parents and children, sometimes identifying positive youth programs and opportunities is difficult. Is there any sort of constant these children can find in the face of all the changes and/or difficulties? 4-H may be the answer!

The Past
The roots of 4-H started in Ohio in 1902 with A.B. Graham, who founded a boys’ corn-growing club and a girls’ food preservation club (4-H.org). By 1914, the Cooperative Extension Service was established under the Smith-Lever Act passed by Congress. This Extension Service, housed in land-grant institutions, aimed to bridge the gap between university-level researchers and everyday community members. This connection fostered the dissemination of knowledge, benefiting both researchers and local communities.
Under the Extension Service umbrella, educators serve in various roles. Agricultural/food systems agents collaborate directly with farmers, horticulture educators lead gardening initiatives like the Master Gardener program, and family and consumer science educators promote healthy living and financial literacy. Meanwhile, environment and natural resources professionals address state-specific needs, and 4-H educators focus on youth development for children aged 5–18.
Historically, 4-H provided knowledge, skills, and activities related to agriculture. County fairs showcased 4-H youth’s baked goods, canned goods, and livestock, with barns filled with poultry, rabbits, and horses. While these traditional programs remain strong, 4-H has significantly expanded to embrace youth from all walks of life.

The Present
Today, youth enrolled in 4-H can choose from a wide array of projects and activities, ranging from crafts and entrepreneurship to shooting sports and STEM. The goal remains the same: to cultivate leadership skills for life in a safe and inclusive environment. The 4-H motto, “Learn by Doing,” is supported through hands-on activities grounded in the 5E teaching model: engaging, exploring, explaining, elaborating, and evaluating (Edutopia.org).
By participating in 4-H, youth gain valuable life skills that extend far beyond their formative years. Despite being the largest youth development organization in the nation, serving over 6 million participants through caring and supportive mentorship, 4-H is often referred to as a “best-kept secret” (4-H.org). Many families remain unaware of the extensive benefits the program offers.
In Maryland, Dr. Jeff Howard, Interim Program Leader for the University of Maryland Extension 4-H program, has witnessed tremendous growth and adaptation during his 15 years of service. Expanding 4-H’s reach to underserved communities is a top priority under Dr. Howard’s leadership. With urbanization, financial challenges, and issues within the public education system, youth increasingly struggle to find a sense of belonging. While the traditional 4-H community club model works well for families with stable schedules and personal transportation, it does not address the needs of those with limited access and resources.
To bridge this gap, 4-H professionals are innovating new ways to reach youth where they are. Across the nation, 4-H staff partner with public, private, and homeschool groups, as well as other youth organizations. Collaborations extend to afterschool programs, libraries, and community centers, ensuring that no child is left behind. These efforts foster a sense of belonging, connect youth with nature, and encourage them to explore new activities and experiences.
Utilizing the 4-H Thrive Model, 4-H professionals are making profound impacts on youth by fostering social, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive growth (4-H.org). This model emphasizes four essential elements for youth success: discovering their sparks (personal interests or “aha” moments), finding a sense of belonging (feeling emotionally and physically safe), engaging actively (expressing their voice through participation in programs and activities), and building strong relationships (with peers and supportive adults). These foundational elements provide the structure for youth to develop confidence and thrive. From the stem grow the leaves, representing the developmental outcomes achieved through 4-H programs and activities. At the top of the model is the flower, symbolizing the long-term outcomes of 4-H participation—outcomes that may take years to fully blossom but reflect the enduring impact of 4-H on a young person’s life.

The Future
As the diversity of youth participating in 4-H continues to grow, families become less traditional, and potential volunteers find their time stretched thin, 4-H professionals must remain creative and adaptable. The increasing prevalence of digital devices presents additional challenges, requiring innovative approaches to engage youth meaningfully.
Budget constraints necessitate a proactive approach to funding, with 4-H professionals seeking grants and other financial opportunities to expand programming. In Maryland and other states, 4-H Foundations play a critical role in supporting fundraising efforts to ensure the program’s sustainability.
The future of 4-H will demand continuous innovation to remain relevant. By embracing change and prioritizing inclusivity, 4-H can continue to empower youth, instill a love of learning, and prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow. Through this commitment, 4-H will remain a beacon of positive youth development for generations to come.
For more information about 4-H or to find a local extension office, visit www.4-H.org. ❦

About the Author

Kelly Bryant, who serves as the Charles County 4-H Educator, joined the University of Maryland Extension team in January 2024. Kelly’s journey with 4-H is truly special, as she not only grew up within the 4-H community but is also dedicating herself to its growth and success in the county and state.
Kelly has deep roots in the community, and her passion for 4-H has been a constant throughout her life. Having experienced the transformative impact of 4-H firsthand, Kelly understands the importance of fostering leadership, personal growth, and community engagement among youth. Her own three children are active in Charles County 4-H.
Kelly’s commitment to education is particularly noteworthy. She played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) program for Charles County Public Schools. This program has not only enriched the educational experience for local students but has also strengthened the connection between the local community and the broader educational landscape.
As Charles County’s 4-H Educator, Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for empowering young minds. Her ability to connect with participants and families will be a testament to her dedication to the values of 4-H (head, hands, heart, health).

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