4-H: Action for the Future

As a 4-H alumnus and volunteer, I see 4-H striving to reflect the diversity that is within our communities. I believe that 4-H is ready for the next step in the discussion and adjust our strategic plan to further our outreach efforts of including all.

From discussions with my peers, I have gathered perspectives from various backgrounds. When talking about diversity and inclusion, it is important to have people from the target audience present and at the table. Therefore we should reflect various demographics within the staff. There is an increased sense of belonging when you walk into a room and someone looks or acts like you do. This will also assist with the needs assessment of those demographics due to someone knowing their own community better then another ever would.

Another action step would be to make visible this diversity of our members and programming through our media outlets. 4-H and Extension touch so many people in various ways. The definition of a 4-Her is not what it used to be. There is no “traditional” member anymore. A 4-Her is a young person that has been involved and participated in the program; period. Whether that be through the schools, a traditional club, an after school group, camp, etc. The key is accessibility and spreading positive youth development.

Additionally, in my experience, 4-H has been wonderful at meeting me where I am at in my life. You can learn more about my story here. Young leaders in the program came to me and gave me the opportunity to challenge myself by choice. The program could do more to be accessible, available, and in tune with the wants and needs of various populations. Some minorities needs may not be considered if there is not a diverse pool of individuals to brainstorm. Minorities can include, but are not limited to, race, sexuality, socioeconomic status, disability, religion, geographical location, and immigrants.

Some of these topics can be uncomfortable to talk about. However, there is no reason for it to be awkward. As a program, we have a common goal of assisting and helping to “make the best better.” Positive intentions must be brought to a safe space and questions should be asked to better understand and learn from one another. Listening to people with the intention to comprehend, instead of reply, is crucial in this process. I see so many extension professionals attempting to do just that, however, so many offices are understaffed. The personnel will need to be increased to meet the influx of participants, in order to reach our goal of 10 million strong by 2025.