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Youth Development Through 4-H

Originally developed to help rural youth gain knowledge and experience in management, organization, life skills and leadership through agricultural pursuits, 4-H has since taken root in Canadian cities.

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Credit: B.C. 4-H.

Almost a century ago, rural Canada became the cradle of a youth development program that over the years has produced some of this country’s most successful citizens. That program is 4-H.

Originally developed to help rural youth gain knowledge and experience in management, organization, life skills and leadership through agricultural pursuits, 4-H has since taken root in Canadian cities. In B.C., an amazing 17 per cent of 4-H members live in urban areas, while 41 per cent live in the country, but not on farms.

The value of 4-H in terms of its role in helping youth develop both career and life skills is irrefutable. A 2002 Measures of Success survey conducted by Ipsos-Reid showed that the majority of Canadian 4-H alumni felt the educational program had had a significant influence on their careers and personal development, and the statistics prove it. Overall, 31 per cent of 4-H alumni hold a Bachelor’s degree or better versus 16 per cent of the 1996 general population, and 43 per cent have household incomes ranging from $50,000 to $99,000 versus 36 per cent of the population. Further to this, more than 50 per cent of respondents held non-agriculture-related jobs in a wide range of industries.

Getting Started
To start a 4-H club you require a minimum of six members, one or more volunteer adult leaders to provide guidance, plus a club sponsor (community organization or business). In B.C. anyone from six to 21 years of age can join.

Once established, club members are required to choose a project, and as far as subject matter is concerned, the sky is the limit. Members can undertake an environmental project, such as rehabilitating a stream for fish habitat, or they can start a club to pursue specific interests, such as photography, computers, books, music, woodworking, drama, gardening or community service. Urban members interested in working with animals can make the care and training of a dog, cat, rabbit or guinea pig their project.

Members also participate in activities like camping, travel and leadership training. In fact, some 4-H programs can earn students Grade 11 and 12 high school credits.

For more information, contact B.C. 4-H, toll free at 1-866-776-0373 or check out the B.C. 4-H website at www.bc4h.bc.ca.