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What is 4-H?

4-H is the youth development program of the Mississippi State University Extension Service. Preparing young people to become responsible, capable and involved leaders and citizens of Mississippi and the nation is the goal of the 4-H program. This goal is accomplished by providing educational experiences for young people to gain knowledge, develop life skills, make healthy choices, develop critical thinking skills and form positive attitudes-values that they will rely on throughout their lives.

To reach this goal, 4-H relies on partnerships. These partnerships include the support of federal, state and county governments, the dedication and generosity of private donors, and the devotion and commitment of volunteers. These groups work together in harmony. It is their united vision and combined efforts that endure 4-H will remain a premier youth development program in Mississippi.

VISION:
The Mississippi 4-H Youth Development Program will continue to be a recognized leader in developing life skills, empowering youth and volunteers, and facilitating effective partnerships to create capable and responsible citizens.

MISSION:
Prepare youth to meet the challenges of childhood, adolescence and adulthood by utilizing a coordinated, long-term, progressive series of educational experiences that enhance life skills and develop positive social, emotional, physical and cognitive competencies.

VALUES:

  • Positive life skills development of youth
  • Diversity among youth participants, their families and Extension personnel
  • Utilization of research-based information in creative, diverse and hands-on educational environments
  • Optimizing each youth's potential through unique partnerships with other youth families

4-H PLEDGE:
I pledge my HEAD to clearer thinking, my HEART to greater loyalty, my HANDS to larger service and my HEALTH To better living, for my Club, my community, my country and my world.

4-H MOTTO:
To make the best better.

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