Beech Tree News Network

4-H provides youth numerous opportunities to learn, grow and develop into productive adults. As a result, 4-H is a perfect place for young people to start exploring potential careers.

 From robotics to cooking, 4-H’s many programs, clubs and activities really do have something to interest every young person. If youth have an interest, talent or hobby, chances are they can learn more about it or do something productive with it in 4-H. As they learn more and do more in a particular interest area, a young person may develop a passion for a particular activity which could turn into a career choice. They may also decide a particular topic or field is not for them. A great thing about 4-H is it provides a safe environment for exploration before young people have to choose a college major or commit to a particular career.

 Another great thing about 4-H is members get to explore many of their interests under the guidance of a caring adult volunteer. Many times, these volunteers are also experts in the topics they are teaching. So not only do these volunteers help educate youth but they can also show youth the many career possibilities available in a particular field. Volunteers also provide valuable networking experiences as youth begin thinking about careers.  

 Many 4-H activities foster creativity and get youth thinking outside of the box. Their ideas may one day turn into a career for them.  In entrepreneurship programs, young people get to learn more about the steps to take to start a business and about the risks involved. Many also progress further by actually opening their own businesses while still 4-H’ers.

          For more information, contact the Butler County Extension Office at 112 E GL Smith Street, Morgantown or call 526-3767.

 Educational programs of Kentucky Cooperative Extension serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.

Lloyd G. Saylor, County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development Source: Chuck Stamper, Cooperative Extension Service special projects coordinator