4-H Youth Programs | Building Future Leaders Through STEM, Life Skills & Community
- Updated
4-H is more than agriculture and livestock—it's helping young people build confidence, leadership skills, and brighter futures! In celebration of National 4-H Week, Sarah Johns welcomes Sarah Chvilicek and Jessica Martin to 2 Plus You Nevada to explore the many opportunities available through University of Nevada, Reno Extension 4-H Youth Development.
From STEM education, robotics, and aviation to agriculture, horsemanship, cooking, and hands-on learning, 4-H offers Northern Nevada youth opportunities to discover their interests while developing important life skills. Sarah discusses the 4-H Beyond Ready initiative, which helps prepare young people for future careers through communication, confidence, leadership, and real-world experiences.
Jessica shares her experience as a longtime 4-H horse club member and volunteer, explaining how working with horses can teach responsibility, empathy, and confidence. The conversation also explores Washoe County's classroom programs, after-school partnerships, 4-H camps, and an upcoming October 22 kickoff event where families can connect with local clubs, volunteers, and 4-H professionals.
🚨 Segment Highlights:
🍀 National 4-H Week | More Than Agriculture
• Celebrating the impact of 4-H Youth Development
• Exploring opportunities in STEM, agriculture, home arts, and more
• Helping young people discover interests and develop new skills
🌟 4-H Beyond Ready | Building Future Leaders
• Developing communication, confidence, and leadership skills
• Preparing youth for future careers and evolving workforce needs
• Creating supportive environments through mentors and adult volunteers
🐴 4-H Horse Clubs & Volunteer Opportunities
• Jessica Martin shares her experience growing up in 4-H
• Horse programs teach horsemanship, responsibility, and empathy
• Volunteers help young people develop skills and meaningful relationships
🔬 STEM Education in Washoe County Schools
• Classroom lessons support science education standards
• Students explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
• Hands-on activities encourage curiosity and a love of learning
🤖 After-School Programs & Hands-On Learning
• 4-H partners with TEAM UP to support after-school enrichment
• Activities include robotics, STEM projects, cooking, and life skills
• Club, classroom, and after-school programs offer multiple ways to participate
🏕️ 4-H Camps & Youth Experiences
• Discover how 4-H camp builds friendships and independence
• Nevada offers 4-H camp experiences at Lake Tahoe and Alamo
• Memorable activities help young people grow and connect
📅 Washoe County 4-H Kickoff Event
• Thursday, October 22, 2026
• Washoe County Extension Office | 4955 Energy Way
• Meet local 4-H clubs, volunteers, and youth development professionals
• Advance registration is encouraged
🌐 Learn More About UNR Extension 4-H Youth Development:
Explore local 4-H clubs, STEM education, youth programs, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events through University of Nevada, Reno Extension.
Visit: https://extension.unr.edu/4h/
#4HYouthDevelopment #National4HWeek #2PlusYouNevada