According 4-H Program to the U.S. Department of Education, young adults who obtain a bachelor’s degree will earn more than 66 percent more than those with only a high school diploma; and are also far less likely to face unemployment. However, obtaining that degree has become more difficult since higher education costs has risen 63% over the last twelve years.  Agents and volunteers in a five county group banded together in 1998 to create the John Swack 4-H Scholarship Fund, in memory of a long-time 4-H Agent.  The goals of the newly created scholarship program were to retain 4-H members longer and to assist outstanding 4-H members with a $1,000 scholarship for higher education.  Since inception, the John Swack 4-H Scholarship committee has awarded $183,000. The committee has continued to reach their goals of retaining 4-H members in the program until they age out and assisting them with college expenses.  As a direct result of this program, the five county group has seen an increase of volunteers actively engaged in the program via fundraising efforts for the scholarship fund. Recipients of the scholarships have completed degrees, are actively engaged in the workforce and many are coming back to the 4-H program to volunteer as club leaders, judges and workshop leaders.  Since inception, Warren County has awarded thirty-six youth with $1,000 scholarships.  Career fields include medical, banking, veterinarian, education, photojournalism, 4-H Agent, and much more!