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.

Marshall County 4-H”s final “In Their Own Words” in this series is a former 4-Her who is now an active Adult 4-H Volunteer/Mom.   Here’s what she had to say…  

When asked to describe the impact that 4-H/Lena have had on my life is hard to put into words. When I entered 4-H at 9 I was a quiet angry kid with parents in active addiction and not sure of a way out. Without the opportunities, clubs, and extra caring that Lena provided I would have easily ended up in jail or worse. 4-H kept me from exploring all the bad crowds and kept positive role models in my life. Lena made sure that I was busy and focusing on the good things and evolving myself and my future goals instead of following my friends and parents into addiction.  Now that I am grown and using the skills taught to me through the years of clubs and conferences, I now can show my daughters the same experiences. I can never truly thank Lena enough for everything she has done and can't wait to see what she will do in the future with my daughters. 

In her own words, this 4-H Alumna has shown the full 4-H Thriving Model and her growth into positive, contributing member of society.   She is dedicated to providing her own daughters the same positive youth development.  She has helped planted the “seed” to their growth and thriving in Marshall County 4-H.