Empowering Youth: The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is empowering the next generation of leaders in Texas through its programs like 4-H, the state’s largest youth development program. 4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. 4-H is about having fun, learning, exploring and discovering. More than 55,000 Texas youth are enrolled members of 4-H community clubs in Texas. Another 600,000 Texas youth get involved in 4-H through special educational opportunities at school, in after school programs, or at neighborhood or youth centers. These youth live in cities, suburbs, small towns and rural communities.
4-H gives them a chance to pursue their own interests; a list of 4-H projects is available online. They go places – to camp, to state and national conferences. In 4-H clubs, they serve as officers and learn to conduct meetings, handle club funds, and facilitate group decision-making. They give back to their communities. 4-H members get involved in volunteer projects to protect the environment, mentor younger children and help people who are less fortunate.
