4-H is America’s largest youth development organization, with six million members across the U.S. and around 140,000 children in Nebraska.
The H’s represent Head, Heart, Hands and Health; their mission statement is “to provide Nebraska youth with positive youth development opportunities that prepare them to become healthy, capable, and ready to engage in school, work, and life”
Sophomore Daisa Smidt shared some values from her time in 4-H that have helped her in her college career. Within Smidt’s club, she was a president, treasurer, historian and news reporter. Smidt has been in multiple events within 4-H including modeling.
After joining 4-H, her family has gone to all Nebraska state fairs. he shares that this was her past fair that she modeled in, “I’m going to look back and look at all the memories and all the things I learned… without 4-H, I wouldn’t be the same person I am today.”
As a business marketing major, Smidt has had experience with marketing in 4-H. Smidt and her sister have given speeches and won second place for marketing for 4-H camp. “It’s about knowing your audience and knowing how to adjust,” Smidt said.
John Slieter, Agribusiness Program Director and Assistant Professor, shared his personal experience in 4-H by doing 4-H teaching and projects in past years, as well as leadership seminars. Slieter shares that he thinks in the last 10 years 4-H has changed by allowing more opportunities for all kids, whether they grew up on a farm or not.
“4-H is great for teaching students basic social skills, communication and teamwork,” Slieter said. Slietier has also noticed that students who have been involved in activities like the state fair, 4-H and FFA have more confidence and are strong leaders.
All of this matters because it’s the future of America. Farmers make up 10-15% of the U.S. population, and though the average age in the industry is 60, it’s encouraging to have an organization that empowers kids and helps build the future. Doane emphasizes building leaders, and students can come in knowing that they already have a foundation in leadership.
