Discover the Impact of JoCo 4-H This Summer
Summer is an exciting season for Johnson County 4-H as youth across the community take part in hands-on learning, leadership opportunities, and service projects that help them grow into confident, capable leaders. The “H” stand for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, representing the lifelong skills and values youth develop through hands-on learning, community involvement, and experiences that prepare them to make a positive impact both locally and in an increasingly connected world.
For more than a century, 4-H has empowered young people through experiences that build life skills, encourage curiosity, and strengthen connections to their communities. In Johnson County, 4-H welcomes youth of all backgrounds and interests from agriculture and animal science to robotics, photography, cooking, art, public speaking, and community leadership. These opportunities help young people better understand not only their local communities, but also the importance of collaboration, innovation, and cultural awareness in today’s global society.
What makes 4-H unique is its focus on learning by doing. Members gain practical skills while developing responsibility, teamwork, communication, and confidence that prepare them for success far beyond the classroom. Guided by caring volunteers and mentors, youth are encouraged to explore new interests, serve others, and discover how their individual talents can contribute to solving real-world challenges.
Throughout the summer, JoCo 4-H members participate in camps, workshops, project meetings, and community events leading up to the county fair showcase, which is one of the biggest celebrations of youth achievement in the county. These experiences highlight the creativity, dedication, and hard work of local young people while encouraging the leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving skills needed in an ever-changing world.
Even families who are not currently involved in 4-H can bring the spirit of 4-H into their summer. Here are three fun ways to participate in 4-H-style activities at home and in the community1.
1. Start a “Learn by Doing” Project
Encourage kids to explore an interest by creating a simple summer project. Plant a garden, learn to cook a new recipe each week, build a birdhouse, practice photography, or try a science experiment. The goal is to let youth discover skills through hands-on experiences, creativity, and curiosity about the world around them
2. Give Back Through Community Service
4-H teaches the importance of helping others. Families can volunteer together at a local food pantry, organize a neighborhood cleanup, make cards for seniors, or collect supplies for an animal shelter. Small acts of service help young people develop leadership, compassion, and a broader understanding of how communities everywhere thrive when people work together3.
3. Visit the Johnson County Fair
County fairs are a great way to experience the excitement of 4-H firsthand. Attend exhibits, watch youth competitions, meet local 4-H members, and learn about projects ranging from livestock and gardening to arts and technology. It’s a fun and inspiring community event that celebrates innovation, creativity, and the diverse talents of young people.
Families looking for meaningful opportunities for their children are encouraged to learn more about JoCo 4-H and the many ways youth can get involved. Whether a child is interested in science, leadership, the arts, animals, or simply making new friends and building confidence, there is a place for them in 4-H.
Johnson County 4-H is proud to help young people grow into thoughtful leaders who are prepared to make a positive difference in their schools, neighborhoods, communities, and the world around them.
by Tara Markley, Johnson County Extension Director and Community Vitality Agent, 2026