"The 4-H Name & Emblem is a highly valued mark within our country's history. As such, it was granted a very unique and special status; it is in a category similar to the Presidential Seal and the Olympic Emblem. This federal protection makes it a mark into and of itself with protection that supercedes the limited authorities of both a trademark and a copyright. As a result, responsibility and stewardship for the 4-H Name & Emblem were not given to the U.S. Patent Office but were given to a higher level of the federal government, a member of the Cabinet, the Secretary of Agriculture. The Secretary has responsibility for the 4-H Name and Emblem, at the direct request of Congress. The '18 USC 707' is the statement in the United States Code that outlines the protection of the 4-H Name & Emblem."
— From National 4-H Headquarters
Green is nature's most common color, represents life, growth and youth. White symbolizes purity and high ideals.
The 4-H pledge describes how 4-H helps youth develop and grow in positive ways.
- Head stands for decision making, planning, organizing, problem solving and using knowledge throughout life.
- Heart stands for strong personal values, positive self-concept, concern for others, cooperation and communication.
- Hands stands for volunteering, community service, preparing for the world of work, science and technology literacy, and useful skills.
- Health stands for healthy lifestyles, character, ethics, stress management and disease prevention.
"I pledge my HEAD to clearer thinking,
My HEART to greater loyalty,
My HANDS to larger service,
And my HEALTH to better living,
For my club, my community, my country, and my world."
4-H Motto: "To Make the Best Better"
The 4-H motto encourages each member to do his or her best and improve the next time, so his or her "best" becomes "better." Members stretch their abilities and capacities to reach their full potential.
4-H Slogan: "Learn By Doing"
The philosophy of the 4-H program provides opportunities for youth to gain "hands-on" experience to enhance their learning.