Research over the past two decades has demonstrated the power of arts and culture in the lives of young people.  It not only helps them attain artistic proficiencies, but also helps them to develop critical life and work skills (Goss, 2007)

The Kentucky 4-H Performing Arts Troupe and Leadership Board is made up of fifteen high school aged youth that were selected through applications and live auditions.  These youth participated in a hands on music camp where they improved their musical abilities and performance skills, developed and implemented a series of workshops for middle school aged youth, learned about career opportunities in the performing arts during a culminating educational trip, toured a recording studio, recorded a song and performed at four state level extension events. 

An end of program survey revealed that all youth increased skills in the performing arts and learned how to better prepare for a performing arts performance.  A third of the students stated that they are thinking of a career related to the performing arts.  All of the participants identified that have used skills learned in the Performing Arts Troupe to contribute to their community.  

One youth starting volunteering at a music museum and volunteered for over 150 hours.  That is valued at $3621.  Another youth started booking gigs and has made over $300 in the past year.  

One member summed up their experience in this quote; “ The Performing Arts Troupe has instilled confidence and an optimistic work attitude in me. My ability to work with and lead a group has grown exponentially. I have been able to independently facilitate committee meetings, as well as coordinate events. I have learned time management, networking, and responsibility to a force greater than me that I will carry on to adulthood. Most of all, I had mentors and advisers to push me to mature and become the person I am today.”