Florida 4-H is focused on the future of young people across the state and empowering them to meet the challenges of the next 100 years. Looking to the future, UF/IFAS believes all youth should have access to opportunities that can lead to their growth and success as contributing members of the community. Here, in Citrus County, readying young people is part of what we do every day in 4-H clubs, school enrichment programs, and targeted outreach through workshops, camps, and other events.

Did you know there are nearly 200,000 4-H members in Florida? They range in age from 8 – 18 years old. At the turn of the century, 4-H members were primarily from rural, farming communities. While agriculture was, and still is, the backbone of 4-H, today, the breadth and scope of 4-H programs have expanded. We offer exploration and discovery in topics as diverse as engineering, chemistry, mathematics, art, healthy living and so much more.

Why does this matter? Young people come from a range of backgrounds and life experiences. Some want to reach for the stars, pursuing careers in aerospace, theater, or design. Future politicians and community leaders get a kick-start in public speaking and citizenship. These programs promote civic engagement and spark conversations about local communities, the decision-making process and visioning for the future. Learning with peers promotes teamwork and collaboration.

Back to workforce skills. 4-H is not alone in teaching these essential skills. In fact, many youth programs teach skills. The difference is in how 4-H does it. Here, the focus is on positive youth development (PYD) as the framework for working within communities to improve youth outcomes and grow a future workforce. The focus is two-fold; helping youth to find the “spark” or interest that puts them on a trajectory to thrive and ensuring the context to express their “spark” through a variety of opportunities, including internships and work experience.

So how do you get started in 4-H:

1. Call your local 4-H Agent. In Citrus County, that is Marnie Ward.
2. Check out the Citrus County 4-H webpage https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/citrus/4-h-youth-development/.
3. Learn more about educational programs by reviewing educational curriculum on the 4-H Mall https://shop4-h.org
4. Enrollment is open year round, so call today.

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