4-H Youth Development

"4-H a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills."

4-H Youth Development creates opportunities for youth to develop skills, practical knowledge,and wisdom through observing, doing, and reflecting on experiences. We call this “learning by doing” – a learning model that has been active and successful for over 100 years. 4-H is the youth development program of Cornell University Cooperative Extension-Broome County, linking resources of Cornell University to young people. We create supportive learning environments in which diverse youth and adults reach their fullest potential as capable, competent, and caring citizens.
The four Hs (head, heart, hands and health) represent four basic human needs: independence, belonging, generosity, and mastery. Research indicates that youth whose basic needs are met in positive ways are likely to grow into active citizens and contributing members of their families and communities. 4-H can help you to help your child meet these needs.
By combining project activities with opportunities to go to camp, publicly show their work, travel, and attend meetings and events at Cornell University Cooperative Extension-Broome County and Cornell University, 4-H provides a framework on which young people can build self-confidence, responsibility, and generosity.