It’s time for the start of the new 4-H year which officially began on Oct. 1 and will run through Sept. 30 of next year. The 4-H program provides Kansas youth with a chance to learn, lead and grow by helping them to develop soft and life skills. Opportunities range from science and leadership, to gardening and public speaking through project work and relationships with caring adults and volunteers. Youth will gain a sense of community and find their place within it.

The 4-H program has played a pivotal role in both urban and rural youth development for over 100 years. At the conclusion of next year’s Kansas State Fair, we will wrap up our 120th year of Kansas 4-H. A young child can begin their 4-H journey as young as 5 or 6 by joining as a Cloverbud member. This non-competitive membership serves as way to introduce them and their family to the 4-H program. Youth become full 4-H members that can participate through high school, at the age of 7.

4-H provides opportunities to learn and grow for youth of all interests and backgrounds with over 50 project area offerings. Leadership and communication skill development is a cornerstone of 4-H, starting with simple club demonstrations and talks. From there, youth may participate at their local club days to display their knowledge obtained through project work, and compete for the chance to compete at a Regional Club Day event.

4-H strives to provide a safe place for collaboration, exploration, learning, and even failure. With caring adult guidance and peer support, 4-H provides a space for youth to celebrate their victories and learn from their failures. Volunteers are crucial to creating this environment. The work we do in 4-H could not be done without their support. If anyone has a passion they would like to share with youth or has interest in learning more about what it’s like to be a 4-H Volunteer, I invite you to reach out to our office.

National 4-H has launched a new initiative called “4-H Beyond Ready” that is all about preparing our youth to be ready for work in life. We look forward to the opportunity of helping the youth of our communities become “Beyond Ready” and strive “To Make the Best Better.” Feel free to reach out for more information on how to join.

For more information on 4-H Youth Development or K-State Extension call the office at 620-793-1910, email me, Ben Sims, at benjam63@ksu.edu, or stop by the office which is located in Great Bend at 3007 10th St. Be sure to follow K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood Extension District Facebook page and check our website cottonwood.k-state.edu for the most up-to-date information about Extension programming.

Ben Sims is the 4-H Youth Development Agent for Cottonwood Extension District in Barton County. Email him at benjam63@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.