About 4-H
What is 4-H?
4-H is a national youth development organization which helps young people learn life-long knowledge and skills to become engaged, caring citizens. 4-H is a voluntary, non-formal, educational program. 4-H provides opportunities for youth to strengthen their mental, physical, moral and social development, through programs led by Extension personnel and certified volunteers. Youth can explore and pursue their interests while also making friends.
What makes 4-H different?
4-H is unique because it is the only youth organization tied to the research base of nation’s land-grant university system. This connection allows the South Dakota State University Staff, and volunteers they work with, to receive training based on the most up- to-date research on youth development.
The 4-H emblem is the four-leaf clover with the letter "H" on each leaf. The leaves of the clover are green and "H's" are white.
Green and white are used together to symbolize purity, youth, life and growth.
4-H Emblem
4-H Beliefs
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The 4-H member is significantly more important than his or her project.
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Project work is one of the best devices for developing young people. To “learn by doing” is
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fundamental in any sound educational program and is a primary characteristic of the 4-H program.
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4-H’ers should be their own best “exhibit.” This includes their personal manners, attitudes, and courtesy as well as appropriate dress and physical appearance.
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No award is worth sacrificing the reputation of a 4-H member or volunteer.
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Competition is recognized in 4-H as a human trait, but competition requires careful planning and safeguards when used as an educational tool.
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A blue-ribbon 4-H’er with a red-ribbon exhibit is more desirable than a red-ribbon 4-H’er with a blue-ribbon exhibit.
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Every 4-H member needs to be noticed, to feel important, to achieve some degree of success, and to be praised.
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It is the responsibility of 4-H volunteers and staff to guide 4-H members in learning how to think, not what to think.
What makes 4-H different?
4-H is unique because it is the only youth organization tied to the research base of nation’s land-grant university system. This connection allows the South Dakota State University Staff, and volunteers they work with, to receive training based on the most up- to-date research on youth development.