The 4-H Thriving Model is the science-grounded in practice that describes the “magic” of 4-H.  This model takes the science to explain the growth/thriving  process of youth because of their 4-H involvement.   Moving from the Developmental Context (4-H Programs) to Youth Thriving (Social, Emotional and Cognitive Learning) to Development Outcomes (Positive Youth Development) to Long-Term Outcomes.   

The 4-H Thriving Model is best envisioned through what’s become commonly known as “The Flower Model.”  Thinking of the various stages of the 4-H Thriving Model as a flower growing and thriving is best way to envision the growth/impact on not only youth, but their families as well.  This series of success stories will show the impact Marshall County 4-H Youth Development programs have had on youth who are grown into positive, contributing members of society.

Marshall County 4-H”s third “In Their Own Words” are two former 4-Hes.  The first was involved with primarily After-School 4-H Clubs from 4^th grade through high school.  The second did not get involved in 4-H until her Sophomore year of High School when “on a whim” decided to apply to be a 4-H Camp Teen Counselor.  She remained very active through high school including not only County, but District and State 4-H opportunities.  In their own words…

I learned more about being a teacher, leader, and effective communicator in 4-H (and from Ms. Lena and Ms. Carol) than any class in college, and when I was not allowed to play sports in school because of being born without my hip.  4-H was my second home and where I made so many friends that I would not have made otherwise. – Current High School English Teacher

My experience in 4-H working with kids as a camp counselor and helping with the after-school program played a big role in me deciding to back to school to become an elementary school teacher.  Also, just in general having positive adult role models as a teen was good for me and I know it was good for so many other people too. 

The Long-Term Outcomes (aka the “flower”) of the 4-H Thrive Model include academic or vocational success (Head); civic engagement (Heart), employability and economic stability (Hands), and happiness and wellbeing (Health).  In their own words, these two Marshall County 4-H Alumna credit their involvement in the program for getting them to be thriving members of our world.