The 4-H Youth Development Program in Nevada is kicking off its new year with “Go GREEN Day” and National 4-H Week (Oct. 5–11), encouraging youth, volunteers, and staff to participate in diverse activities beyond traditional agriculture. Led by the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, 4-H now includes hands-on learning in robotics, self-defense, sign language, creative writing, and even aviation, aiming to build skills, confidence, and leadership in both urban and rural youth. Events like the 4-H Kickoff in Reno and immersive camps such as the Mustang Camp provide opportunities for youth to engage with complex issues like land management and wildlife conservation while fostering teamwork and responsibility.
Highlighting community involvement and education, Nevada 4-H youth contributed handmade ornaments for the 2025 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, showcasing state pride and creativity. Other programs, like the Grow a Pizza initiative, teach youth about food systems from seed to plate, promoting healthy lifestyles aligned with 4-H’s core values of Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. With nearly 6 million youth nationwide and a goal to reach 10 million by 2030, 4-H continues to offer affordable, meaningful experiences that prepare young people for future careers and civic engagement.