From Barn to Boardroom: The Lifelong Benefits of 4-H
By Esther Donohue
October 16, 2024
4-H is much more than just a youth program; it’s a place where kids can grow, learn, and discover their potential and a community where they can find support and build lifelong friendships.
In my own experience, 4-H instilled in me many skills that I still use today, such as public speaking, confidence in myself, and the importance of supporting my local community.
The skills, values, and experiences gained through 4-H prepares young people not just for the future but for life.
Developing Life Skills
One of the most important aspects of 4-H is its focus on life skills. Through various projects and activities, kids learn the importance of responsibility, time management, and teamwork. For example, when a young person takes on a livestock project, they’re not just learning how to care for an animal but also about commitment, as they need to care for that animal every day.
Public speaking is another key component of 4-H. Whether demonstrating at a club meeting or presenting a project at the county fair, 4-H members learn to communicate their ideas clearly and confidently. These skills will serve them well throughout their lives, regardless of their path.
Connecting with Agriculture
For many of us, 4-H is synonymous with agriculture, and for good reason. The program has deep roots in farming communities, and it continues to be an excellent way for kids to connect with agriculture, whether they live on a farm or not.
Through projects like raising livestock, gardening, or even beekeeping, kids learn where their food comes from and the hard work that goes into producing it. They also participate in county and state fairs, where they can showcase their projects and gain valuable feedback. (Check out the Walsh County Fair this weekend.)
But it’s not just about the projects; it’s about the values that come with them. Responsibility, patience, and respect for nature are just a few lessons that 4-H members take away from their agricultural experiences.
Embracing STEM and Innovation
While 4-H may be rooted in agriculture, it has also embraced the future by incorporating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) into its programs. 4-H offers plenty of opportunities for young people to explore their interests in these fields.
A Foundation for the Future
The benefits of 4-H continue even after the program ends. Many 4-H alumni go on to successful careers in agriculture, science, business, and beyond. They often credit 4-H with giving them the foundation they needed to succeed.
As a business owner, you can show your support by attending our local Nelson County Achievement Days, held in July. The 4-H members will be happy to see you there supporting their hard work.
Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or someone who cares about the future of our youth, consider getting involved with 4-H. It’s an investment in our kids, our community, and our future.
If you’re interested in getting your child involved in 4-H in your own county or if you’d like to support the program in other ways, I encourage you to contact our local extension office.
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Read MoreAbout the Author
Esther Donohue lives on a farmstead near Pekin, North Dakota. She grew up in Nelson County and loves sharing her rural roots with others. She’s married to a fourth generation farmer, they have three children, numerous farm animals, and a massive vegetable garden.
Esther is a classically trained chef, operates a food truck, has a confection business and teaches Culinary Arts at Warwick Public school and recently started a blog, The Phat Hen where she shares her love for rural living and food.
When Esther isn’t working, she is enjoying the outdoors, time with family and quilting.
Follow her blog at www.thephathen.com and her food truck at Sweet Prairie Food Truck and her confection business at Rustic Rose Confections.
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