4-H took root over a century ago by empowering youth to lead. Lead with confidence and strength, with the curiosity to question and capability to find answers, with the grit to get the job done and humble pride to make sure it’s done right. Most of all, these youth understand that giving back can move an entire community forward. These are the young people that we call True Leaders.
And at 4-H, we understand that true leaders aren’t born, they’re grown.
America is facing a critical need for more leaders – true leaders – prepared with the skills to deal with the problems of today and the challenges of tomorrow. Every child has the potential to be a true leader. 4-H gives young people experiences – where they can learn by doing, grow from failure, express their ideas, and lead. We tap into their potential and empower them to become true leaders.
The Kent County 4-H program continues to teach youth skills, preparing them for the future as they follow our motto “To Make the Best Better.”
Though the 4-H program is traditionally agriculture-based, today's 4-H programming reaches across a wide variety of youth interests, from archery to horses, to horticulture, to robotics, to public speaking; and youth do not have to live on a farm or own an animal to be involved in 4-H. Currently the program offers over 80 different project areas, with main focuses in the areas of STEM, Agriculture, Healthy Living, and Civic Engagement.
The mission of 4-H is to teach youth citizenship, leadership, and life skills so that they develop into competent, caring, compassionate, and contributing citizens. Our 4-H youth attend local club meetings, participate in educational activities, and work with 4-H projects throughout the year.
The Maryland 4-H Family Guide helps you learn more about 4-H and how to help your child have a positive experience in 4-H. Use this booklet as a tool to familiarize yourself with the 4-H youth development program.
