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 Kentucky 4-H Achievement program through motivation and the use of incentives is important to positive youth development by recognizing 4-H youth who have outstanding accomplishments and have increased their knowledge, skills and abilities. Keeping youth involved in leadership opportunities, being civically active, and achieving life goals is important to ensure that they have the necessary skills to be successful in life.  The Achievement program encourages personal and professional growth and development in a time when youth in our community’s struggle to see the importance of being active in extracurricular activities, civic engagement and leadership roles.  In 2020, two Henderson County youth were awarded the Kentucky 4-H Achievement Gold Award and 1 Clover Level 1 Award

4-H’s long reaching effects as compared to other youth, 4-H’ers are 4 times more likely to give back to their community, and 2 times more civically active.  These youth have continued to advance their leadership development in the 4-H Program by providing leadership to the Henderson County 4-H Teen Club, Livestock Club, and Horse Club. Both of the gold awarded 4-H members have served on State Teen Council and served on the planning committee for Southern Regional Teen Leadership Conference. One of the 4-Hers filled in and served as the Kentucky 4-H Officer Program Assistant for 6 months. They both attended Kentucky Volunteer Forum in 2020 and participated in Leadership Bootcamp in some capacity. 

The Kentucky Achievement Program has helped these youth recognize how they can develop as leaders in 4-H and their community.