4-H Program Makes a Difference in Youth

A recent study by Dr. Richard Lerner at Tufts University in conjunction with land-grant universities across the country has shown that 4-H helps involved youth to ‘excel beyond their peers.’  4-H is a youth organization that benefits more than 6.5 million youth members nationwide.  Pennsylvania 4-H is a non-formal youth development education program of Penn State Extension. It helps youth between the ages of 5 and 19 to become self-directed, productive and contributing members of a diverse society by empowering them to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults.

The study began in 2002 and has surveyed over 7,000 youths encompassing 44 states.  The findings from the study have shown that young people who participate in 4-H are more motivated to perform better in school and pursue a higher level of education than their non-4-H peers.  In addition, the 4-H youth demonstrate a lower usage of drug, alcohol and cigarettes.  They are also 3.3 times more likely to contribute to their communities than adolescents who are not involved in 4-H. 

Rachel Quiring, a recent member of the Penn State Extension 4-H program in Bucks County stated, “If I didn’t go to 4-H, I don’t know where I’d be right now.” 

Quiring started her 4-H career at the age of 8 and has had many learning experiences since that time.  Through participating in sewing, drama, public speaking, and foods and nutrition, she has found her future career.  The 4-H foods and nutrition project helped Quiring to realize she has a passion for cake decorating.  She is now in her first year at Bucks Community College studying pastry arts. 

Quiring also attributes 4-H to helping her develop her social and leadership skills.  One of the programs in particular was the Bucks County Teen Council.  Teen Council members serve as a liaison to take information back to the 4-H clubs throughout the county and to generate excitement about the activities. 

Nancy Stephenson, a 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator in the county said the Council began 10 years ago.  The first event developed by the Teen Council was an achievement night to recognize members and leaders across the county for their accomplishments.  The Council members planned the night around the theme, “The 4-H Emmys.”  The event was a success and the tradition continued; this year about 200 people are expected. 

Stephenson went on to explain that Teen Council, now roughly 30-35 members strong, meets 5-6 times a year to plan events for the county.  She said, “Teen Council takes it to the next level and plan events independently.” Council members facilitate the officers training for all of the club officers in Bucks County, an event that can include up to 150 officers.  Another recent accomplishment includes a silent auction held at the fair to raise money for the leadership events they plan.  Members were responsible for acquiring donations, organizing the tables, and coordinating the working hours of the auction.  Stephenson said she had several parents who offered help, but she expressed unequivocal faith in the Council’s ability, “It ran like clockwork and they did a wonderful job.”

Teen Council is open to any youth 13 years or older who is already involved in a 4-H club within the county.  Stephenson said that the younger members aspire to be a part of the council because they have fun and look up to the Council members.  Stephenson said that she can see the confidence building benefits that 4-H has on members.  “It’s a kind and accepting environment where a sampling of projects is available to explore many opportunities.” 

Quiring enthusiastically confirmed that her 10 year career as a 4-H member “Has changed my life for the better.” 

For more information regarding the Pennsylvania 4-H program and how to become involved, please visit http://extension.psu.edu/4-h online.