“To Make the Best Better” is the motto of 4-H clubs all over the world. Over 40 million youth participate in this program, which focuses on a four-fold approach to training and development in the area of practical arts.

“I pledge my HEAD to clear 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.” This pledge begins the monthly meeting of each and every 4-H club in 80 different countries.

The four leaf clover is a symbol of good luck and achievement, making it the perfect emblem for this youth group. The four H’s that appear on it’s leaves are the backbone of the organization.

The “Youth Development Movement” – better know as 4-H – began in the last decade of the 19 th century. It was not the result of a single effort in an isolated area, but rather as a simultaneous response throughout the country to the needs of rural America.

Through the involvement of America youth in “learning by doing”, adults were persuaded to adopt new techniques for growing field crops and farm animals as well as raising, harvesting and preserving garden produce. These projects, prompted by the Land Grand University System, sought to improve life in rural America. Youth were encouraged to appreciate their rural communities and the opportunities available to them there.

The first activity of such youth-oriented clubs occurred in 1898 and was instituted by Liberty Hyde Bailey of Cornell University. It was not until 1907 that these organizations were gathered under the United States Department of Agriculture. In 1914, the Cooperative Extension division of the Department of Agriculture was formed and provided staff for the administration of the 4-H program.

By the beginning of World War I, there were forty-seven 4-H clubs in the United States. Producing food – growing vegetables and canning and preserving garden produce became the priority for the clubs during the war.

As the number of clubs rapidly expanded through the 1920’s and 30’s, redirection from the production of products to the individual growth of the youth involved occurred.

World War II prompted an emphasis on Victory Gardens, civilian defense, salvage programs and bond campaigns. The Victory Garden project brought 4-H to more urban communities.

During the 1950’s and 60’s, 4-H was introduced to more non-farm youth with projects targeting family living and community development in addition to the original agricultural projects.

Although some of today’s 4-H clubs still focus on agricultural projects, such as growing crops and raising livestock, others are tailored more to the interests of urban populations. Build a model rocket, train your dog, study astronomy or space travel. Photography, scrap booking, various types of sewing and needlework, small engine repair, and hunter safety are among the many projects that are available.

Each club elects officers annually and conducts business meetings monthly. Many events promote learning to make presentations to others, or to otherwise speak in public. Leadership opportunities through 4-H are available at the local, county, state, national and international levels. Many recreational and leadership activities are held every year that promote both individual and group involvement.

4-H has a long list of famous former members, including Roy Rogers, John Denver, Dolly Parton, Alan Shepard, Don Meredith, Tom Wopat, Charlie Pride, Orville Redenbacher and Reba McIntyre.

4-H projects are designed to teach members skills that will be useful to them throughout their lives. Strong personal values, a positive self-image, and a genuine concern for others are encouraged.

Other 4-H websites are: National 4-H Headquarters and 4-H Centennial.