Belonging in every zip code: Meeting the needs of rural youth through creative partnerships

Recently, I had a conversation with a 4-H parent that reminded me why this work matters. Her son, who is autistic and has ADHD, loves 4-H. She shared, “No matter how bad of a day he’s having, if there’s 4-H, he wants to go.”

For this young person, 4-H isn’t just an activity, it’s a place where he feels like he belongs.

As we talked more, she reflected on how more opportunities seem available to youth in large cities compared to rural areas. That stuck with me. It reminded me of the importance, and the power, of creative partnerships in rural communities. They’re how we ensure youth, no matter where they live, have access to inclusive, high-quality programming.

Research supports this need. Rural youth face increased barriers to extracurricular opportunities, including limited transportation, fewer programs and lower access to specialized services. 

At the same time, youth who feel a strong sense of belonging experience better mental health, stronger social skills and higher motivation to learn. That’s why it’s critical we meet youth where they are and build programming that includes everyone.

Creating strong partnerships doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intention and trust. 

Here are five key steps in developing partnerships:

1. Listen first. Start by understanding a partner’s goals and challenges. For example, when the local housing authority expressed a need for free after-school programming, we partnered to bring 4-H directly to their site.
2. Look for the win-win. Strong partnerships benefit everyone involved. When our local 4-H program co-hosted a Pinewood Derby with Scouts BSA at the county fair, both organizations gained visibility and new members, while engaging youth in STEM and design.
3. Start small, then grow. Last summer, we worked with a local educational farm to host a small summer camp for 12 youth. This year, the Parks and Recreation Department joined in to support funding and promotion, doubling participation to 24 youth.
4. Be flexible and responsive. After the pandemic, we could no longer run an after-school program as we had before. But by collaborating with our local elementary school, we reimagined the experience, offering three weeks of hands-on learning each summer instead.
5. Celebrate shared success. We uplift our partners publicly and privately. Each year, our local 4-H program honors a community collaborator with the Friend of 4-H Award to recognize their impact.

These creative partnerships have expanded access to quality programming. Most importantly, they’ve helped youth in rural areas feel seen, included and empowered.

Because belonging isn’t just a feeling—it’s the foundation for learning and growing.