Success StoryKentucky 4-H Achievement Program Success Story
Kentucky 4-H Achievement Program Success Story
Author: Ashley Osborne
Planning Unit: 4-H Central Operations
Major Program: Leadership
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
Recognizing Outstanding Accomplishments
The Kentucky 4-H Achievement Program celebrates the remarkable achievements of young people throughout their 4-H journey. Recognition levels include Clover Levels 1, 2, and 3; Bronze; Silver; Gold; and Emerald. As 4-Hers advance through these levels, they become eligible for scholarships to events like Kentucky 4-H Teen Summit, Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference, National 4-H Congress, National 4-H Conference, and eventually scholarships for college or vocational school. To receive an Achievement Award, members must complete an extensive application showcasing their 4-H participation in leadership, civic engagement, communication, and community action.
Developing Essential Skills
Through 4-H, youth develop essential life skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making, contributing to their readiness for life and work. Youth set and achieve goals, fostering personal growth and a sense of accomplishment. The Kentucky 4-H Achievement Program provides a platform for 4-Hers to record and share their 4-H story and be recognized for their accomplishments.
Addressing Community Needs
According to the Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment 2023, priority issues related to leadership include:
- Youth life skill training opportunities (e.g., leadership and communication skill-building opportunities)
- Strengthening youth workforce readiness (including entrepreneurship, business development skills, etc.)
- Strengthening youth-adult or mentorship relationships
- Maximizing youth voice in issues that matter to them
- Strengthening youth peer-peer relationships
The Achievement Program helps youth meet these needs by providing structured opportunities to develop and showcase their skills, fostering a sense of responsibility and service, and encouraging active participation in their communities.
Celebrating Success
For the 4-H Program Year 2025, we proudly celebrate:
- 4 Emerald Level recipients
- 41 Gold Level recipients
- 47 Silver Level recipients
- 68 Bronze Level recipients
- 49 Clover Level 3 recipients
- 51 Clover Level 2 recipients
- 72 Clover Level 1 recipients
These achievements highlight the dedication and hard work of our 4-H members, showcasing their commitment to personal growth, leadership, and community service. Kentucky 4-H continues to empower youth, fostering the next generation of leaders who are ready to make a positive impact on the world.
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