October 5-11, 2025, is National 4-H Week, and Polk County is celebrating the 4-H youth who have impacted the community and are stepping up to the challenges of a complex and changing world.
The 4-H youth development program provides experiences where youth can “learn by doing,” which encourages youth to experiment, innovate and think independently.
4-H programs are offered through school-based, after-school, and camp settings and within community clubs. Groups meet regularly to work on projects, perform community service, and develop leadership skills. Through this unique process, youth obtain essential life skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, coping, and communicating.
“4-H provides positive learning opportunities that are critical for the development of young people,” said Jennifer Skuza, associate dean for the Department of Youth Development and Minnesota 4-H state director. “As a result, 4-H youth become prepared for a healthy, productive and engaged future and make a positive difference in their homes, schools and communities throughout Minnesota.”
4-H projects include the ever-popular agriculture and animal science projects, as well as performing arts, community service and cutting-edge technology projects, such as aquatic robotics and environmental projects.
“4-H has made a huge impact in my leadership skills. I have had countless opportunities to speak publicly about my passion for agriculture, especially livestock. 4-H has given me the opportunity to teach, lead and grow as an individual. I am proud to say that 4-H has shaped me into an outstanding, confident go-getter!” said Polk County 4-H Federation President Sidney E.
A 2024 survey of Minnesota 4-H’ers showed that 9 in 10 4-Her’s had the opportunity to lead that year, 99% of 4-H high school seniors reported having a plan for their future career or education and 75% of 4-H’ers directly served their community as part of the program.
In Polk County, more than 150 4-H members and 58 volunteers are involved in 4-H. Polk County 4-H is celebrating its 100th anniversary, making a century of youth development, leadership, and community engagement.
Learn more about 4-H in Minnesota and how you can get involved at www.4-H.umn.edu or contact Katie Becker, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development, 218-563-2465 or kabecker@umn.edu
