With county and state fairs complete, I’m often asked, “What are you doing now that fair is over?” The answer is simple: a lot! This week, I want to highlight the many ways 4-H reaches youth beyond the fair. In fact, in Clay and Fillmore Counties, our small staff connects with 1 in 2 age-eligible youth and families. Statewide, Nebraska 4-H reaches 1 in 3 youth across all 93 counties, with the support of more than 12,000 volunteers.
Nebraska 4-H strives to empower young people to develop strong mindsets and social skills for successful futures. Youth are reached through clubs, camps, afterschool programs, school enrichment, and special interest opportunities. While traditional 4-H clubs and camps are often the most visible, school enrichment and other programs extend our impact year-round.
School enrichment programs are learning experiences provided during school hours by local 4-H staff. These hands-on programs enhance classroom lessons, introduce new topics, and spark curiosity. They also strengthen collaboration between teachers and Extension staff to meet classroom goals. Locally, our programs focus on Career Development, STEM, Healthy Lifestyles/Personal Development and Agricultural Literacy, and we continually adapt to meet the needs of schools and students.
One program in its 28th year is AgVenture Day – a partnership with the South-Central Cattle Women and Extension that reaches 150+ fourth graders annually with hands-on lessons about agriculture and food production. Progressive Agriculture Safety Day – held each spring, reaches nearly 100 youth with presentations on safety and injury prevention.
Research Shows 4-H Impact
National research underscores the positive impact of 4-H. A series of studies led by Dr. Richard Lerner and his team at Tufts University (2002–2012; 2020–2023) show that 4-H youth report higher levels of positive youth development—including well-being, strong relationships, self-regulation, and active school engagement—compared to their non-4-H peers (Tufts Now, 2024).
Most notably, in the recent Replication Study (2020–2023):
- 4-H youth were 2x more likely to report feeling competent.
- 4-H youth were 2x more likely to feel positive about their well-being.
In addition, follow-up studies of 4-H alumni show long-term benefits as young adults. Compared to their non-4-H peers, alumni were:
- 3x more likely to engage in community service.
- 2x more likely to report living with purpose and intentionality.
- 2x more likely to aspire to leadership roles.
These findings highlight the lasting influence of 4-H as youth navigate today’s challenges, including mental health and social pressures.
So, next time you’re tempted to ask, “What are you doing now that fair is over?” consider instead, “What programs or projects are you working on?” Chances are, you’ll hear about school enrichment, youth safety programs, agriculture education, or any of the countless Extension efforts supporting youth, farmers & ranchers, families, and communities.
For more information about Nebraska Extension’s educational programs, research, and initiatives, visit extension.unl.edu.
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