UNH Cooperative Extension's 4-H Youth Development Program connects directly to the research and resources of the 106 Land Grant universities and colleges of the Cooperative Extension System. This connection strategically positions 4-H to strengthen the country's global competitiveness and leadership. For more than a century, 4-H has engaged our country’s youth in the building blocks of economic success.

This has meant a solid focus on agricultural science, electricity, mechanics, entrepreneurship and natural sciences. Today, 4-H out-of-school opportunities also exist in subjects like rocketry, robotics, bio-fuels, renewable energy and computer science.

4-H Science, Engineering and Technology programs reach more than five million youth with hands-on learning experiences to encourage young minds and to fill the pipeline of young leaders proficient in science.

These experiences are supported by more than a half million dedicated adult volunteers who are placing 4-H youth on a path towards successful careers. The 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology Program must be part of the long-term solution for improving science literacy and aptitude of America’s youth.

4-H will address our nation’s critical challenge by preparing one million new young people to excel in science, engineering and technology by 2013. As a public-private partnership, 4-H can focus a variety of resources and expertise to strengthen young people’s discovery and exploration of science. We believe fostering passion in science today will shape education and career decisions tomorrow.

You can get involved today by joining 4-H youth as they celebrate national 4-H week. 4-H youth from across the nation will be “Keeping It Green” as they celebrate 2008 National 4-H Week October 5-11 by raising awareness about environmental issues and initiating environmental projects that make a positive difference in their communities.