WSU Extension - 4-H creates stronger communities

A new study confirms that youth involved in 4-H are leaders, contribute to their communities and are civically engaged, which strengthens communities.

The 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development (PYD) is finding that youth involved in high-quality, structured programs during out-of-school time, such as those offered by Wahkiakum County 4-H are more likely to experience PYD.

Findings of the 4-H Study of PYD--a first of it's kind, longitudinal study measuring the impact personal and social factors have on youth as they develop--reveal that all youth have the capacity to thrive, regardless of where they live, their family situations, their socioeconomic status, their race or gender. Study findings also show that the quality and quantity of structured, out of school time programs that youth are involved with matters. The more often youth are involved in high-quality youth development programs, the more they and their communities benefit.

We're excited about this research and will be applying what we learn to our county program. We want to ensure that our 4-H program continues to provide opportunities that will help our youth become successful, contributing members of society.

The 4-H Study of PYD sponsored by National 4-H Council shows that in addition to sustained adult interaction and mentoring, communities, families and schools need to provide access to youth development programs such as 4-H in order for youth to experience success.

With the 4-H Study of PYD, the characteristics of a successful youth development program are being defined and measured for the first time. The study's key findings show that:

• Community youth development programs, like 4-H, are proven to affect youth success.

• All youth can succeed --involvement in 4-H increases their potential of doing well.

• All youth need positive youth development. No young person is immune to the risks and challenges present in today's society.

• Involvement in youth development programs reduces the likelihood that young people will engage in risk behaviors, such as underage drinking, smoking, bullying, etc.

Visit http://www.fourhcouncil.edu/newsroom.aspx to learn more about the 4-H Study of PYD.