4-H citizenship is an exciting project to help youth assume leadership roles by teaching and helping others. It also teaches one how to engage in civic governance and community decision-making. As in most 4-H projects, youth learn how to effectively communicate with others; and develop skills such as decision-making, getting along with others, planning and organizing, and responsibility.

Today, more than ever, there is a greater need for one to understand civic governance. Cloverbuds (ages 5-7) and junior members (ages 8-10) start out focusing on self-identity, self-acceptance, and relationships with family and friends. This is all covered in Me, My Family & My Friends. Next comes My Neighborhood which goes beyond the family and into the neighborhood and school. For the intermediates (ages 11-13), My Clubs and Groups helps 4-H members learn to function in organized groups so that they can be more effective participants. My Community opens the doors for community understanding and involvement.

For seniors (ages 14-18), My Heritage helps members learn about family heritage through developing a family tree. My Government focuses on the government systems, laws, and voting. Becoming a good citizen includes understanding the government.

My World focuses on international topics and cultural diversity. This unit of the 4-H citizenship project is designed to help youth develop skills in relating with youth and adults from varied backgrounds. It also lends itself to youth planning to host international visitors.

Through the 4-H citizenship project, youth can learn, lead, serve and make a difference!

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