Youth with disabilities have the right to enjoy, benefit, and learn from extracurricular activities such as 4-H. Shapiro (2000) suggests that "Empathy develops only when typical children gain an understanding of the causes, origins, handicapping effects and consequences of disabilities and feel comfortable interacting with those who have them period." According to Stumpf, Henderson, Luken, Bialeschki, and Casey (2002), "Inclusion means that people with disabilities have the same opportunities for involvement in meaningful and satisfying experiences as afforded other segments of the population."

However, inclusion of special needs youth in traditional 4-H programs is not enough in itself. Some adaptations should be made to increase the understanding by 4-H members and adult volunteers to the sensitive issues facing special needs youth. We've come to believe through our observations as Extension professionals that 4-H programs and trainings are a necessity for volunteers who will be assisting special needs youth in the club setting. Special needs youth will benefit from activities and opportunities that let them use their talents and interests. This will help ensure that children with special needs have the broadest educational opportunity available through the hands-on learning experiences that 4-H provides.

Boyd County 4-H began including special needs school 4-H clubs the fall of 2011.  Each month the class participated in hands on learning lessons with teens volunteering to assist with the club lessons each month.   Each year the lessons focused on a particular core curriculum area.  This new club was supported by the Boyd County Adult 4-H Council and Boyd County Teen 4-H Council.  Shawn, a 4-H club member in the very first special needs club, participated throughout his entire education.  Shawn was even elected as club president once in high school.  This club member really enjoyed assisting other classmates and members and was a clear leader in his class.  Shawn graduated from Boyd County High School May 2018.

December 2019 while assisting co-worker Boyd County Horticulture Agent with her wreath program, the Boyd County 4-H agent was recognized by her former special needs club member Shawn.  Shawn was attending the wreath making class with an adult group from Active Day of Ashland.   Active Day of Ashland is an organization that provides personalized care to seniors and adults with special needs through fun and engaging community events.

The former 4-H member hugged the Boyd County 4-H agent and told her how much he had loved being a 4-H member.  He said that he loved helping other people now just as he did in   4-H club.  Shawn proceeded to assist other adults and senior citizens that day to make their wreaths.

4-H members with disabilities will develop a greater sense of self-confidence and self-reliance as they successfully interact with other youth and participate in traditional 4-H activities.  This was proven by the former 4-H club member who continued his positive development to adulthood.

All youth--whether rich or poor, gifted or disabled--deserve the chance to reach their fullest potential.  A 4-H culture that embraces all youth will enjoy and experience the benefits of new friendships and shared experiences.