About the National 4-H Conference
National 4-H Conference Logic Model
The National 4-H Conference Logic Model stems from the Citizenship Mission Mandate logic models. National 4-H Conference is specifically focused on the Civic Engagement area of Citizenship.
Background
The National 4-H Conference is the premier professional and leadership development event for 4-H members (15-19 yrs.) who are actively engaged in 4-H programs across the U.S. and its territories. The conference is administered by 4-H National Headquarters of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This experience upholds a tradition dating back to 1927. Known then as the “National 4-H Club Camp”, delegates slept in tents on the grounds of the National Mall in front of the Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Washington, DC. Held annually, except for several years during World War II, the camp served to develop the next generation of leaders. Delegates attended training workshops, became acquainted with government and had the opportunity to meet with state leaders. In 1958, the event name was changed to National 4-H Conference and, in 1959, the meeting moved from the National Mall to the newly founded National 4-H Center in Chevy Chase, MD (right outside of Washington, D.C.).
Purpose
Provide an opportunity for 4-H members to:
- engage 4-H youth in personal development experiences that will increase knowledge, resources, and skills;
- discuss topics affecting youth and 4-H programming nationwide; and
- empower and mobilize 4-H youth to create positive social change in their communities in a meaningful and genuine way.
Objectives
- Learn – Provide youth a broad- based learning experience in which they will acquire practical knowledge and skills to reinforce the attitudes and motivation that will give them a heightened sense of responsibility and capacity to connect as active members of their communities, nation and world.
- Practice – Engage youth in hands-on educational activities in which they explore, practice and master existing and newly developed skills/knowledge in civic engagement, civic education and personal development.
- Apply – Facilitate direct opportunities for youth to apply what was learned in real world experiences in which they develop leadership skills using their voices, work, ideas and/or behavior to make a difference in their community, country and world.
National 4-H Conference is the pinnacle experience in 4-H Citizenship, providing the opportunity for young people to connect, learn, engage, lead and impact their communities, their nation and their world.
Recorded Webinar: Enhancing the Framework: National 4-H Conference
Future Conference Dates
- 2014: April 5th - 10th
- 2015: April 11th – 16th