Are you in middle or high school and feeling ready to spread your wings? Would you like to move beyond the limits of your community club and your county? Do you feel ready to take on more responsibility and learn life skills you need for adulthood?
Some of the best opportunities in 4-H are these programs and events designed specifically for young adults.
State Events
The Know Your Government Conference, Teen Conference, TALK Retreat, and Ambassadors Retreat are statewide events that bring immediate and lifelong benefits. Get away from home and learn a new skill, build confidence in yourself, have fun in a different environment, and make friends who will support your long-term goals.
National Conferences
Are you ready to board a jet and travel beyond Idaho to Atlanta, Georgia, Washington, D.C., and Madison, Wisconsin for 4-H national conferences? Push your boundaries with these national programs.
International Programs
You can learn about the world without ever leaving home if you host an exchange student from another country for a month or a school year. If you are especially adventurous you might consider traveling to another country as a 4-H delegate.
Contests
4-H has contests designed specifically for teen 4-Hers. Check out our contests page for more information on these achievement programs.
Builders Clubs
Many counties have special clubs for teens known as Builders Clubs. Designed to engage teens in community service projects as well as fun activities, enrollment is limited to teens. Contact your county extension office for information on clubs in your area. No teen club in your county? Start one with the help of a committed volunteer adult or county staff member.
Teen Leaders
Become a teen leader in your club, and help out as a teen leader in a specific project area, with your county’s 4-H camp or other programs. Contact your county office or speak with your community club leader.
Public Speaking
Do you enjoy public speaking? Do you hate public speaking, but know you need to improve your skills and overcome your fears? Either way, you can explore public speaking projects and contests (ask your club leader for assistance), and should consider attending any of the 4-H state events.
Scholarships and Awards
4-H offers awards and scholarships for teens who embody the best of 4-H. Be recognized for your efforts at the county level, and then venture beyond the county borders with scholarships to attend youth leadership programs and college.