The University of California 4-H Youth Development Program provides a wide variety of enrichment activities with the ultimate goal of giving youth the skills they need to thrive and succeed throughout their lives. The focus of all 4-H programs is positive youth development through activities in science literacy, healthy living, and citizenship. All 4-H programs are accessible and open to all youth
. The 4-H YDP adheres to the 4-H Vision, Mission and Values. 4-H YDP core values require that programs be:
Responsive to California’s youth and families,
Inclusive and diverse,
Innovative and adaptable,
Accountable for actions and resources,
Collaborative and team focused,
Honest, fair and equitable,
Respectful of the health and well-being of people, animals and the environment, and
Evaluated regularly and adjusted as needed to maintain effectiveness. Core Values are criteria for designing and implementing educational activities and measuring educational impacts based on the following:
4-H YDP activities focus on education and meet identified UC ANR Strategic Initiatives and clientele needs.
4-H YDP adult volunteers are guides to youth learning. They also respect others’ viewpoints and abilities.
4-H YDP programs respond to a range of individual learning styles, abilities and backgrounds.
4-H YDP educational activities are inclusive, not exclusive. Educational efforts are available to the public on an equal opportunity basis in accordance with UC and federal affirmative action/diversity policies; and are limited only by UCCE resources.
4-H YDP staff and adult volunteers emphasize experiential “learn-by-doing” methods.
4-H YDP staff and adult volunteers teach new skills, validate achievement and encourage sharing of information and learning.