4-H is the Cooperative Extension System's dynamic, nonformal educational program for young people. Its mission is to create supportive environments for culturally diverse youth and adults to reach their fullest potential and to advance the 4-H youth development movement to build a world in which youth and adults learn, grow and work together as catalysts for positive change. 4-H is a family affair. This includes the parent-child relationship and the extended family of community and state.
4-H encourages diverse groups of youth to develop their unique skills and talents to the fullest potential. Young people participate in 4-H through clubs, special interest groups, after-school programs, camps and many other activities. "Learning by doing" through hands-on activities and community involvement empowers 4-H'er's to develop and strengthen life skills.