4-H is a fun, learn-by-doing educational program for young people. The mission of Michigan 4-H Youth Development is to create environments, through collaborations, that build strong and healthy youth who are proactive in a complex and changing world.

Through their involvement with caring adult volunteers, 4-H members gain meaningful educational experiences that contribute to their personal growth and development. The quality of the experiences depends, to a large extent, on the relationships built between and among the young people and adults. 4-H clubs are one of the primary vehicles Michigan 4-H Youth Development uses to achieve our mission.

4-H clubs are designed to foster relationships and offer learning experiences over an extended period of time. The unique opportunity for social and personal development provided through a 4-H club structure is the most effective and efficient way to achieve the mission of 4-H.

Outcomes

Active participation in a 4-H club helps young people develop their assets and life skills. We hope that young people will develop:

• Greater knowledge and appreciation of themselves and others.
• Decision-making skills.
• Public and interpersonal communication skills.
• Positive interactions with other young people and with adults.
• Responsibility for themselves.
• An ethic of service to group and community.
• An attitude of lifelong inquiry and application of information.
• An ability to relate to a constantly changing world.
• Strengthened family interactions.
• Career exploration and workforce preparation skills.
• Leadership skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Greater understanding of and appreciation for diversity.
• Practical knowledge and skills in project areas.
• Positive conflict resolution skills.

Adults involved in 4-H roles as volunteers often grow and develop in the same areas as the youth participants.