Youth in Governance

4-H is the leader in innovative positive youth development. The 4-H Youth in Governance initiative engages young people in programs, organizations, and communities where they share a voice, influence, and decision-making authority.

Many efforts to provide equal roles for youth—such as youth in government, youth serving on boards of directors, youth leadership training, or youth service-learning activities—are what support the broader youth in governance vision.

The initiative targets both youth and adults, supporting each in developing the skills and knowledge they need to be effective and confident leaders.

Citizenship Programs

Each summer, National 4-H Council hosts Citizenship Washington Focus a program for 4-H youth in the Washington, D.C.-area. CWF provides youth with a hands-on view of government through Capitol Hill visits, field trips, and other leadership opportunities.

Engaging Youth, Serving Community Program

The Engaging Youth, Serving Community program helps youth in rural areas gain the skills, experience, and confidence they need to emerge as effective leaders and contributing members of society. The program focuses on the priorities that emerged from the National Conversation on Youth Development in the 21st Century.