Kent 4-H

4-H Youth Development in Kent County

4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization, empowering young people to lead, learn, and serve. 4-H programs help youth ages 5-18 reach their fullest potential through research-backed, hands-on learning experiences that build life skills, leadership, confidence, and meaningful connections to their communities.

In Kent County, 4-H programs empower local youth to live, learn, grow, and have fun! Through 4-H clubs and projects, youth can explore topics like animal science, outdoor education, healthy living, camping, civic engagement, community service, and more! Contact our office for more information about Kent County 4-H programs.

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4-H in Kent County

What is 4-H?

4-H is the largest youth organization in the United States with over 7 million participants. 4-H programs teach youth life skills such as responsibility, decision-making, communication, leadership, and much more through hands-on education.

In Maryland, 4-H is the youth development branch of the University of Maryland Extension in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. 4-H is the only youth organization based within the land-grant university system, and the first experience many youths have with higher education. Learn more.

Mission & Vision

Maryland 4-H Mission

The Maryland 4-H Youth Development Program provides a supportive and inclusive setting for all youth to reach their fullest potential in a diverse society. Youth learn beneficial and cognitive life skills through community-focused, research-based experiential education programs.

Maryland 4-H Vision

Maryland 4-H aspires to be a recognized leading youth development program that inspires youth and adults to learn, grow, and work together as catalysts for positive change.

The Four Hs

Head, Heart, Hands, and Health are the four Hs in 4‑H. These values guide the programs that help young people learn, grow, and contribute to their communities.   Through life‑changing 4‑H experiences, nearly six million young people nationwide have taken on important issues such as community health inequities, civil discourse, and advocacy for equity and inclusion.

The 4-H Pledge

"I Pledge my Head to clearer thinking,
my Heart to greater loyalty,
my Hands to larger service,
and my Health to better living,
for my club, my community, my country, and my world."

Motto

"To Make The Best Better"

4-H National Council

Resources & Forms

Program Areas

Maryland 4-H Program Areas

4-H Curricula

Maryland 4-H Project Lists

A 4-H Project is the foundation for 4-H club work. It is a planned sequence of age-appropriate and research-based learning opportunities. As a result of long-term active engagement in the project, youth gain knowledge and develop skills based on planned goals and identified outcomes. 4-H project work is guided by trained adults who help youth set goals and provide access to appropriate curricula and resources.  There are over 75 project areas that 4-Hers can choose from.  You can find specific project listings in the 4-H Enrollment System. Broad project categories include: Animal Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Healthy Living, Science, Technology, Engineering & Math, and Youth Leadership.

Maryland 4-H Project List

Maryland 4-H Program Areas

Explore Topics

University of Maryland Extension's 4-H resources are free and support hands-on learning in STEM, agriculture, leadership, healthy living, and civic engagement. Discover educational materials, guides, and project publications designed for 4-H youth, parents, educators, and club leaders.  Explore all 4-H resources.

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