Building a generation of youth beyond ready
Minnesota 4-H’ers are beyond ready to learn, lead and make a difference.
In Minnesota 4-H, youth build passion and skills through learning, leading and serving — developing the abilities they need today that will carry them into the future.
This year, 11,000 youth explored Minnesota 4-H for the first time, with 73% representing first-generation 4-H families.
58,000 total participants statewide — a 33% increase over the last four years
8,600 screened adult volunteers supporting youth to lead, learn and serve
Minnesota 4-H'ers are ready to learn
Because interests connect to actions
97% of youth gained knowledge they can apply to their future — building confidence for what’s ahead.
To broaden future possibilities
92% of youth developed new interests through 4-H — broadening their horizons and sense of possibility.
“In my years in 4-H I learned how to do note-taking and send professional emails as the secretary in my club. Those are skills I use now when booking venues for The Largest Crescendo.”
— Laura Mohapatra, 2026 National 4-H Youth in Action Award finalist and Blue Earth County 4-H’er talking about her nonprofit band
Minnesota 4-H'ers are ready to lead
8 out of 10 youth led in 4-H in 2024-2025. They don’t have to wait for the future to start serving as leaders. Our communities benefit from their voices today.
93% of youth learn about differences in people through 4-H — an important step toward becoming respectful, inclusive leaders.
“When I first started Sugarloaf Theatre, there weren't really any community theatre opportunities in my hometown. I had been in some environments that weren’t positive theatre spaces. I knew I wanted to have a place where people could feel they belong and I think community theatre is so important in bringing all ages and generations together.”
— Seamus Schwaba, 2026 National 4-H Youth in Action Award finalist and Winona County 4-H'er
Minnesota 4-H'ers are ready to serve
3 in 4 Minnesota 4-H’ers volunteered this year, making the places where they learn and play stronger.
Youth gave back to their communities, making the places where they learn and play stronger. Community service included: community clean up, mentoring, donating food, visiting elders, planting trees and so much more.
4-H Youth in Action award winner: Antonio Becker
This year Antonio Becker, Morrison County 4-H’er, received the highest honor in 4-H as a National Youth in Action winner. Antonio shared how his struggles with mental health catalyzed his service.
“When I saw myself at my lowest point, 4-H saw me as an opportunity,” he shared.
Reviewed in 2026