4-H Youth Development

What is 4-H?

Young people can join 4‑H in many ways. They can be part of clubs, special‑interest groups, after‑school programs, camps, and other activities.

In 4‑H, members “learn by doing.” This means they do hands‑on projects and take part in community activities. These experiences help them build strong life skills.

Many 4‑H activities are similar across Tennessee, but each county has its own program and focus areas. 4‑H is an educational program for boys and girls in grades 4 through 12. It is open to everyone and offers equal opportunities in all programs.

History of 4-H

4‑H in Tennessee started in the early 1900s. It was created to help young people in rural areas learn skills in farming and home economics (like cooking and household skills). At first, there was a Corn Club for boys and a Canning Club for girls. Over time, these clubs grew into many different projects that supported farm life and families.

Today, 4‑H is the youth development program of the University of Tennessee Extension Service. It connects local counties and communities with research and teaching from Tennessee’s land‑grant university.

In the past, people often thought of 4‑H as farm activities like raising animals, cooking, canning, and going to county fairs. But 4‑H has changed over the years. Now it is for all youth—whether they live on a farm, in the country, in a town, or in the suburbs. Modern 4‑H also includes career fairs, service projects, community involvement, character building, and more.

4-H Pledge

I pledge my Head to clearer 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.