The 4-H County Ham project provides youth the opportunity to apply science principles, exercise leadership and communications skills, and invest in their future. 4-H members learn principles in microbiology and practice food safety as they prepare green hams for curing. Those entering competitions research and compose written and oral presentations addressing topics ranging from proper curing methods, insect control, proper storage and cooking, the history of country hams in the world and how to construct a ham house. As they interact with volunteers and leaders, youth discover a variety of careers associated with the livestock and food industry.

In 2021, in the middle of a global pandemic, 41 youth completed the 4-H Country Ham Project, and 35 that were able attended the Kentucky State Fair to compete in the Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Speech Contest. 

At the Kentucky State Fair, one parent spoke at great length the impact the Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Speech Contest has had on her daughter who is a Freshman at Fleming County High School.  When her daughter was in the fifth grade in her first year with the program, she nearly had a panic attack trying to give her speech to two practice judges at the county level.  Fast forward four years, and her daughter was recently cast in a theater production as a singing character.  Her mom attributes this growth to her continued participation in the Fleming County 4-H Country Ham Project where her daughter has had multiple public speaking opportunities a year.