4-H, the world’s largest youth organization, began over 100 years ago and has served many youths in its time.
The program is part of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension Department at the University of Florida Land Grant Institution.
All 67 counties in Florida, and Eglin and Hurlburt Air Force bases’ youth centers, have 4-H programs, which also offer many opportunities for adults, parents, teens.
Youths can participate in fun educational programs such as summer camp, the county fair, school enrichment opportunities, county and district events, club meetings, and many more.
4-H focuses on teaching youths:
•Agriculture
•Life skills
•Citizenship
•Science, technology, engineering and mathematics
•Diversity
•Teamwork
•Leadership skills
•Responsibility
The UF/IFAS Extension 4-H Youth Development Program mission is “use a learn-by-doing approach to help (youths) gain the knowledge and skills they need to be responsible, productive citizens.
“This mission is accomplished by creating safe and inclusive learning environments, involving caring adults, and utilizing the expertise and resources of the University of Florida and the nationwide land grant university system.”
Please contact the Okaloosa County Extension Office, 689-5850, for more information on 4-H programs.
Misty Smith is an agent at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension office in Crestview.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: SMITH: 4-H prepares kids to be responsible, productive citizens