Land-grant universities support youths, build stronger communities

The Land-grant University System plays a crucial role in equipping young people with the skills, knowledge and leadership abilities they need to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Here are a few examples of that work:

• In North Carolina, the Bertie DigiCon provided residents with tools and resources to overcome digital barriers. The event raised funds for youth development and strengthened the foundation for ongoing efforts in digital access and community growth.
  North Carolina A&T Cooperative Extension Program; 1890 Extension, County Funding. See full statement.

   

• In Mississippi, Extension programs are motivating youths to pursue careers in agricultural sciences. Nearly 400 youths have taken part, enhancing their understanding of agronomic practices, the scientific method, planning and development skills, attention to detail and critical thinking.
  Mississippi State University Extension Service; Smith-Lever (3b&c). See full statement.

   

• Volunteers dedicated 121,820 hours to 4-H youth development work in Tennessee. Their efforts generated $3,646,072.60 in value for youth development in the state.
  University of Tennessee Extension; USDA Capacity – Extension, Hatch. See full statement.

   

• A Connecticut 4-H program engaged 22,501 youths and 4,388 volunteers in hands-on learning and leadership development, fostering essential skills for future success. Youth participants demonstrated measurable improvements in life skills, leadership abilities and problem-solving techniques.
  Connecticut Cooperative Extension System; Smith-Lever (3b&c). See full statement.

   

• Extension professionals in Vermont empower youths in 4-H to speak up about important issues by preparing them to become more effective, engaged leaders with a vested interest in making a difference in the world.
  University of Vermont Extension; Smith-Lever (3b&c). See full statement.

   

• An art program in Louisiana is reaching youths by providing a space for them to be involved in hands-on, meaningful activities that encourage creativity, imagination, communication and critical thinking.
  LSU AgCenter; State Appropriations, Non-Profit Grants & Contracts. See full statement.

   

• Kentucky 4-H youths partnered with the Toys with a Purpose initiative to develop cost-friendly adaptations to toys, books and games so that they are more accessible for children.
  Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service. See full statement.

   

• In just three short years, a suburban school in Florida went from having only three youths engaged in the Florida 4-H program to the entire 450-student body having access to participate in the nation’s largest youth development organization.
  University of Florida / IFAS Extension; Smith-Lever (3b&c), County Funding. See full statement.

   

• Through collaboration with tribal organizations and schools, Extension professionals in New Mexico deliver educational activities to youth that promote life skills, personal growth, and opportunities for higher education. For families, 4-H fosters resilience, engagement, and improved quality of life while creating pathways to educational and economic success.
  New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service. See full statement.

   

• Indiana 4-H programs are helping youths learn how science can be used to help solve everyday problems.
  Purdue Extension; Smith-Lever (3b&c). See full statement.

   

• A public speaking project in Delaware resulted in 4-H’ers reporting high levels of public speaking self-efficacy, mastery and vicarious experience, and social persuasion.
  University of Delaware Cooperative Extension; State Appropriations. See full statement.

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Photo courtesy of University of Florida IFAS Extension.