Nebraska 4-H is Beneficial For All Youth, Families
Your children may be too young to attend the University of Nebraska this fall, but they’re old enough to benefit from its fun, research-based educational programs offered through 4-H.
Nebraska 4-H is for all youth aged 5 to 19 and exists in every county in the state. 4-H offers more than 150 projects for youth from all locations and backgrounds.
According to Trish Spencer, 4-H Youth Development Communications Associate, during the past year, current 4-H’ers have paged for Congress, built sophisticated Web sites and servers, been recognized by Governor Johanns for community service efforts and had photos featured in a professional calendar.
Thousands more have launched rockets, gone on outdoor adventures, received recognition for their achievements, developed communication and leadership skills and more.
Since 4-H is affiliated with the University of Nebraska, the material used in 4-H projects is from the state’s only land-grant institution, which means its unbiased and research-based. That means being in a 4-H club is like being in a class taught by NU faculty and staff. These women and men work with trained local volunteers to offer the program to more than 120,000 youth annually.
4-H encourages families to spend time together, and research shows members develop greater self-confidence, leadership and communication skills through their involvement.
One of the strengths of 4-H is its ability to involve parents in activities with their children. Research shows family involvement in community organizations like 4-H, can help children receive higher scores in school and develop stronger family relationships.
“Discover 4-H. Discover You!” during National 4-H Week, October 5-11. For more information, contact a local Cooperative Extension office or visit 4h.unl.edu .
