Motivation and the use of incentives are important to positive youth development. 4-H Youth Development programs provide opportunities for creativity in a learn-by-doing environment and encourage youth to become involved in projects and activities. The 4-H Achievement Program intends to recognize 4-H participants who have outstanding accomplishments, and to provide incentives for youth to increase their knowledge, skills and abilities.  

The overall 4-H Achievement Program design includes the following: (1) Comprehensive program spanning the entire career of the 4-H’er. (2) Awards points for outside efforts and interests. (3) Encourages growth and development by awarding high points at multi-county, state, and national levels. (4) Does not require a previous level of achievement to apply for a higher level as long as the 4-H’er meets the minimum point requirements. (5) 4-H’ers can choose to compete for awards and prizes (i.e. Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Emerald) – OR simply achieve levels and recognized in their counties through Clover Levels one through five. (6) Youth who have obtained a “Bronze”, “Silver”, or “Gold” – retain their title. (7) The new 4-H Achievement Program includes and incorporates the previous “Middle School Leadership Awards”. (8) Previous work completed by the 4-H’er (from past years) may be included in the new Achievement Program. (9) New program designed to allow 4-H’ers to begin keeping records of their awards, participation, and projects.

Over the past 5 years the state program has increased. 

• 2014 – 284 Total Participants 
• 2015 – 339 Total Participants – 19% increase since 2014
• 2016 – 362 Total Participants – 27% increase since 2014, and 7% increase from 2015 year 
• 2017 – 387 Total Participants - 36% increase over 2014, and % increase from 2016 year 
• 2018 – 454 Total Participants - 60 % increase over 2014, and 17% from 2017 year