News Release Distributed 09/09/15

BATON ROUGE, La. – Back-to-school is in full swing, an exciting time for making new friends, meeting new teachers and getting involved. While the focus for the year is on academic achievement, it’s also important for students to participate in extra-curricular activities such as 4-H, said Janet Fox, head of the LSU AgCenter 4-H Youth Development Department.

The nation’s largest youth organization, 4-H is available in every parish in Louisiana with membership open to students in grades four through 12, Fox said. The organization 4-H has three primary program initiatives: citizenship; healthy living; and science, engineering and technology.

Research suggests that youth who participate in extra-curricular activities such as 4-H perform better both academically and socially, Fox said.

“4-H has a rich history of helping young people develop their full potential through hands on learning activities, service projects and camps, which encompass the ‘learn by doing’ approach,” Fox said.

Since 1908, 4-H has provided opportunities for Louisiana youth to build a sense of community with their peers across the state. Youth learn leadership, citizenship and life skills through a variety of projects with topics such as outdoor skills, aerospace, animal science, nutrition, forestry and service learning.

4-H camping opportunities remain abundant for youth ages 9-19 and provide experiences to suit a vast array of personal interests, including fashion; leadership; food and fitness, and science, engineering and technology.

“As the new school year gets underway, be sure to include the 4-H Youth Development Program in your plans,” Fox said. “It’s never too late to join the fun and learning in 4-H.”

More information about joining 4-H is available from any 4-H agent in a parish extension office.

Brandy Orlando