4-H Youth Development

The mission of 4-H is to empower youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults.

Montana 4-H is the youth development program of Montana State University Extension and is the largest, out-of-school youth development program in the state, reaching about 20,000 youth in all counties each year. In 4-H, if you can dream it, you can do it! 4-H offers more than 100 different projects and learning experiences that actively engage youth. 4-H projects rely on trained adult volunteers who work with youth as a partner and resource for learning. There are opportunities from learning how to sew, raising an animal, to camping, and everything in between. 4-H offers youth a wide range of choices and opportunities.

In addition, throughout the year, the membership meets for fun activities such as swimming, community service such as therapeutic horseback riding and educational competitions such as presenting demonstrations on various subjects.

Youth, with the guidance of adults, work year round toward achieving their personal goals.  The culmination of their work is highlighted at the Silver Bow County Fair.  Non animal projects are displayed through posters and finished projects.  Animals are shown and sold at auction.  Judges award ribbons for each entry.

A new 4-H year begins shortly after the fair.  Another year of summer camp fun, fund raising, raising sheep, pigs, cows, chickens, learning how to fly fish, cook, bake, sew, hone archery skills, go camping and so, so much more is on its way.

4-H strives to make the best better.  These exceptional kids are encouraged to be self-starters.  Statistically 4-H members are more likely to graduate from high school and are more likely to go on to higher education.  In many ways, this program gives youth a jump start into adulthood, but maintains the element of youthful fun.