Vermont’s 4-H programs are managed by the UVM Extension. 4-H Clubs in Vermont develop the potential in youth aged 5 to 18 by undertaking projects that involve citizenship and community service, healthy living, crafts, science and technology. 4-H projects are short term opportunities to address a particular subject area intensively. Projects can be undertaken by clubs, in schools or in after school programs. Many 4-H programs culminate in events and awards on a county, state, regional and national level.
Under the guidance of adult mentors, 4-H participants develop competence and compassion, becoming responsible, self-directed, productive citizens. Youth in 4-H learn to set goals, plan projects, monitor their own progress and present their results. A recent study found that in 2015 and ’16, 66% of Vermont high school graduates who had participated in 4-H entered college—a higher rate than the state’s average (53%). Two-thirds of these students matriculated at colleges in Vermont.
