In time for National 4-H Week, celebrated locally and nationally this week, the Minnesota chapter released statistics based on the 66,000-plus young people taking part in its programs to demonstrate how the organization’s impact is felt throughout the state. For instance, last year:
- 89 percent of young people reported working with peers to address problems in their community.
- More than 11,000 youth became more involved in projects focused on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math).
- 93 percent explored a new activity, project or idea.
“Minnesota 4-H is a welcoming place for all youth,” according to Extension Educators Jodi Hintzen and Jackie Kokett in 4-H Youth Development in Douglas County. “Our theme for this year’s 4-H Week is ‘Find Your Spark!’ and that’s a great way to describe how 4-H can make a positive impact on a young person’s life."
Across the United States, 4-H provides hands-on learning to 6 million young people.
4-H in Minnesota is operated by University of Minnesota Extension. To learn more about 4-H in Douglas County, visit extension.umn.edu/local/douglas or its office in the Douglas County Courthouse, 305 Eight Ave. W. in Alexandria, or call 320-762-3890.
