Youth Development/4-H Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Land-Grant Impacts

Topic

a 4-H student operates a robot

Engaging students in STEM, robotics

Exposing youth to innovative technology builds digital literacy, problem-solving skills and career readiness, preparing the next generation to compete in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven workforce. Together, youth-focused technology education and land-grant leadership create a pipeline of skilled leaders who can drive economic growth and address complex local and global challenges. Here are a few examples of that work: South Dakota middle [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Extension, Georgia, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, North Central, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Precision Agriculture, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, The University of Georgia, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

girl slicing a pepper and other vegetables

Peer-led program encourages healthier snack choices

In Louisiana, the Children, Youth and Families at Risk (CYFAR) grant, leveraged by support from the LSU AgCenter, encourages youth to create positive change in their communities. At one school, CYFAR students noticed a growing issue: Many of their peers were choosing unhealthy snacks during the school day. To encourage better choices, the students created a “Healthy Snack Swap Challenge.” [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2026, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Southern, Youth Development/4-H

4-H teens and instructor baking

Extension programming educates, empowers teens to make informed health choices in supportive environments

Teenage youth are one of our greatest resources for influencing change that leads to healthier communities; they are our next generation of leaders. When creating programming for older youth, Extension specialists take into consideration the unique physical, emotional and social changes during adolescence to tailor programming effectively. Across the country, Extension is tackling health issues for teenagers with innovative [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2026, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Food Safety, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Illinois, Michigan, Michigan State University, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, North Central, Public Health, Rural Communities/Health, Southern, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a group of youth and an instructor cook in an industrial kitchen

Expanding food and nutrition education among youth

Early habits among youth often last a lifetime. Extension provides the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) to both youth and adults to improve habits in nutrition, physical activity and food safety. Youth-centered programs help participants develop healthy habits, reduce obesity levels and promote overall well-being. Here are a few examples of that work: Youth in Maine face high rates [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 1890, 2026, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Child and Family Resilience, Delaware, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Maine, Northeast, Public Health, University of Delaware, University of Maine, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Youth Development/4-H

an Extension agent shows youths plants from a community garden

Encouraging health and wellness in U.S. youth through hands-on activities, education

One in five school-aged children nationally suffer from obesity, and regular physical activity and balanced diets can lead to improved focus, behavior, self-esteem and academic performance. Encouraging healthy behaviors at an early age fosters a value for physical activity, healthy eating and preventive habits. These healthy behaviors can lead to fewer chronic diseases, resulting in lower health care costs and a [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 1890, 2026, Arkansas, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Idaho, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Public Health, Rural Communities/Health, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Idaho, Urban Agriculture, Western, Youth Development/4-H

two UAPB athletes speaking at a meeting

Land-grant universities educate individuals and communities about health, nutrition and chronic disease prevention

Many American individuals and communities struggle with building or maintaining healthy lifestyles that contribute to better health outcomes. A lack of awareness of health information and resource constraints limit people’s abilities to eat healthy foods or get enough physical activity. Extension leaders from 1890 land-grant universities are bringing information to communities struggling with high rates of obesity and chronic [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 1890, 2026, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Arkansas, Central State University, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Ohio, Prairie View A&M University, Public Health, Rural Communities/Health, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, Texas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Youth Development/4-H

a person cooking on a cast iron skillet

Preserving food traditions

America’s heritage is deeply rooted in food. It’s important for people to learn where food comes from, how it is produced and how to prepare it. Land-grant universities are connecting youth and adults to these traditions to sustain agricultural knowledge while preparing the next generation with practical skills, responsibility and leadership capacity. Here are a few examples of that work: For [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2026, Central State University, Crop Management, Extension, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Kentucky, Kentucky State University, Ohio, Organic Agriculture, Soil Health, Specialty Crops, Urban Agriculture, Youth Development/4-H

Fort Valley State University scientist harvesting a ripe peach on the campus research plot.

Addressing food insecurity to drive community impact

Food security is fundamental to the health, resilience and economic vitality of rural and urban communities. Across the United States,1890 Land‑grant Universities are uniquely positioned to meet this critical need by advancing research, education and Extension programs that connect communities to practical solutions and sustainable food system innovations. Here are a few examples of that work: When food insecurity hits, older [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2026, Arkansas, Central State University, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Security, Food Systems, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Ohio, Organic Agriculture, Public Health, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Urban Agriculture, Youth Development/4-H

preschoolers look at plants in a raised bed

Strengthening youth development through experiential learning

Experiential learning equips young people with hands-on skills, critical thinking abilities and real-world problem-solving experiences that strengthen academic success, workforce readiness and lifelong learning. Through community-based programs, 1890 land-grant universities play a vital role in ensuing opportunities by connecting research, Extension, and education to support youth and prepare the next generation of leaders. Here are a few examples of that [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2026, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Arkansas, Central State University, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Maryland, Ohio, Organic Agriculture, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Tennessee, Tennessee State University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Urban Agriculture, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Youth Development/4-H

a young boy uses a laptop

Empowering communities by advancing digital literacy

Digital literacy is essential to economic mobility, civic engagement and workforce readiness in today’s communities. Extension programs at 1890 land‑grant universities play a vital role in expanding opportunities in rural and urban communities to build technology skills and support workforce development. Here are a few examples of that work: In Georgia, an Extension initiative is strengthening connectivity and technology skills across [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2026, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Broadband Access/Digital Literacy, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Prairie View A&M University, Texas, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a group of smiling students

Advancing higher education and career readiness

Sectors across the agricultural landscape need more educated and skilled workers to support our national and local food systems. 1890 land-grant universities offer different pathways to introduce students to career opportunities and prepare them for employment. Here are a few examples of that work: In Tennessee, Extension leaders brought a cohort of undergraduate students to the Farm Credit Mid-America headquarters to [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2026, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Kentucky, Kentucky State University, Prairie View A&M University, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, Texas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a group of children smile around a science experiment

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 [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2025, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Broadband Access/Digital Literacy, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Delaware, Extension, Florida, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, North Central, Northeast, Purdue University, Rural Communities/Health, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Southern, Tennessee, University of Connecticut, University of Delaware, University of Florida, University of Kentucky, University of Tennessee, University of Vermont, Vermont, Western, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a family preparing a salad

Delivering nutrition and health education and resources at the community level

The SNAP-Ed program provides research-based nutrition education to SNAP recipients and those who are eligible for benefits, helping individuals and families make more nutritious food choices, stretch their food dollars and lead healthier lifestyles. Land-grant universities play a key role by leveraging Extension professionals to deliver nutrition education and resources directly to a wide audience of communities. The program [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2025, Child and Family Resilience, Connecticut, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Michigan, Michigan State University, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Missouri, North Central, Northeast, Public Health, Rural Communities/Health, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Connecticut, University of Missouri, Youth Development/4-H

view of tree canopy from below

Private land stewardship protects environment and communities

Practicing good stewardship of private lands is important for the health of our ecosystems and communities. Researchers, Extension professionals and educators at land-grant universities across the United States provide training, tools and other resources to help private landowners manage their land in ways that are environmentally friendly and economically sustainable. Here are a few examples of that work: Extension professionals in [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 1890, 2025, Arkansas, Community Development/Engagement, Delaware, Economic Development, Ecosystem Services, Extension, Food Security, Forest Protection and Management, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State University, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, North Central, Northeast, Profitability/Competitiveness, Purdue University, Research, Soil Health, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Delaware, University of Maryland, University of Wyoming, Water Resilience/Management, Western, Wyoming, Youth Development/4-H

a spread of healthy foods

Youth empowerment leads to healthful resilience

Empowering youth with nutrition and health education essential for building healthier communities. The Land-grant University System provides science-based programs that teach young people how to make informed food choices, develop lifelong healthy habits and understand the connections between nutrition and well-being. By equipping youth with this knowledge, the programs foster resilience, reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2025, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Cornell University, Extension, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Michigan, Michigan State University, New York, North Central, Northeast, Public Health, Rural Communities/Health, Southern, University of Vermont, Vermont, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a person loading food into a car trunk

Supporting entrepreneurs, building stronger economies and fortifying food systems

The Land-grant University System empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens local economies and fortifies food systems in communities across the United States. Through their research, education and Extension initiatives, these institutions spark advancements that accelerate economic development and advance food security, ensuring resilient and strong communities. Here are a few examples of that work: Santa Fe County has experienced a decline in the number [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2025, Alaska, Central State University, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Ohio, Research, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Western, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a person looks at information on their phone and laptop

Extension builds financial resilience for community prosperity

Extension professionals at land-grant universities across the United States are helping communities build financial resilience by providing access to education and resources that foster financial literacy and money management. Here are a few examples of that work: Twenty-one percent of Oklahoma children live below the poverty level. An Extension program called Reality Check helped youths learn money management practices and job [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2025, Arkansas, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Illinois, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, North Central, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Profitability/Competitiveness, Rural Communities/Health, Southern, Tennessee, University of Arkansas, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Tennessee, University of Wisconsin, Washington, Washington State University, Western, Wisconsin, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a family preparing a meal

Extension programs help families grow stronger as they navigate life’s challenges

Parenting isn’t easy — and neither are a myriad of other experiences that can arise in family life. To help people navigate situations like adjusting to co-parenting after a divorce, family disagreements and end-of-life planning, Extension professionals at land-grant universities lead research-backed initiatives that strengthen families and offer support for those going through difficult circumstances. Here are a few examples [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 2025, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Cornell University, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, New York, North Central, Northeast, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Southern, University of Wisconsin, Wisconsin, Youth Development/4-H

a group of smiling students

Education opportunities elevate agriculture issues and importance

Reaching youths and students early increases awareness of the importance of agriculture and the critical issues impacting producers. Land-grant universities are creating solutions to address educational gaps, improve understanding critical issues like cyber-biosecurity and provide students with practical knowledge, skills and information for the future. Here are a few examples of that work: Researchers in New Mexico recognized an opportunity for [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Extension, Fiber Systems, Food Security, Food Systems, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Carolina, North Carolina State University, Research, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Southern, University of Wyoming, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Waste Management, Western, Workforce Development and Readiness, Wyoming, Youth Development/4-H

a person wearing PPE and looking at a device

Land-grant universities support the viability of livestock production

From teaching producers biosecurity techniques to keeping poultry cool in extreme temperatures to identifying genetic traits that will optimize production, land-grant university researchers and Extension professionals are supporting the viability of livestock production in the United States. Here are a few examples of that work: Researchers at land-grant universities nationwide are developing and using advanced technologies and data to improve poultry [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Delaware, Economic Development, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Extension, Fiber Systems, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Indiana, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, North Central, Northeast, Profitability/Competitiveness, Purdue University, Research, Southern, University of Arkansas, University of Delaware, University of Wisconsin, University of Wyoming, Western, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Youth Development/4-H

peppers

Land-grant universities foster community, student resilience

The 1890 land-grant universities are committed to strengthening communities, farmers and students through meaningful outreach initiatives. Their engagement ensures that resources are tailored to meet local needs such as food security and economic development. Through these efforts, the universities are fostering more resilient communities for generations to come. Here are a few examples of that work: A food bank needs assessment [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2025, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Broadband Access/Digital Literacy, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Food Security, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Maryland, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Public Health, Rural Communities/Health, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Specialty Crops, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

students work on a plant-based science experiment

Recruiting the next generation of students to STEM careers

As the population grows, the demand for innovative, science-driven solutions in food production and resource management increases. Agricultural STEM careers will play a vital role in boosting global food security and economic development while sustaining natural resources. The 1890 land-grant universities are key in bridging the gap between high school students and these STEM careers. Here are a few examples [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2025, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Arkansas, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Tennessee, Tennessee State University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a 4-h leader helps a participant with a planting

Breaking barriers: Expanding 4-H opportunities in Florida

Orange Park, Florida, traditionally had low youth involvement in 4-H due to misconceptions and lack of local clubs. Since 2021, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences has worked to increase engagement. A breakthrough came when a St. Johns Country Day School student won the 4-H in Space program, sparking interest in STEM opportunities. In spring 2023, [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2025, Extension, Florida, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Southern, University of Florida, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a 4-H participant smiles next to her show sheep

Illinois 4-H program guides youths on the path to success

Beyond the immediate benefits felt by communities through the service projects spearheaded by 4-H youths, the lasting effects extend far into adulthood. Research shows that individuals who engage with 4-H during their formative years are not only more likely to attain economic stability but also exhibit heightened civic engagement compared to their counterparts in the general population. Commitment to community [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2025, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Illinois, North Central, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a 4-h participant and leader present a cooked meal

Youth volunteers lead wellness lessons through Mississippi Extension program

In Mississippi, 4-H members are stepping up to educate those in their communities about a wide variety of health topics. Through the Mississippi State University Extension’s 4-H Junior Master Wellness Volunteer Program, 100 youths made 96,000 contacts in 2024 through one-on-one and group presentations, community service projects, social media messages and a health fair. After receiving training and with guidance [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2025, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Southern, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H