WVSU Extension 4-H Youth Development is part of the National 4-H Council and a network of more than 100 land-grant universities encouraging positive youth development by offering hands-on experiences where young people learn by doing. WVSU 4-H has multiple offices across southern West Virginia and is dedicated to providing innovative educational opportunities for youth in STEM, Agriculture, Healthy Living and Civic Engagement.
WVSU 4-H programs stand out for their unique features. They are not only free and accessible but also extend beyond the boundaries of traditional 4-H clubs. Focused on school and community enrichment, WVSU 4-H directly brings fun and exciting learning opportunities to youth through partnerships with educators, schools, public libraries and community organizations. The program also houses two 4-H STEM Education Centers in Institute and Beckley, where youth can experience high-tech equipment such as flight simulators and wind tunnels. Additionally, it staffs two 4-H educators at the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Claudia L. Workman Wildlife Center in Alum Creek, where youth can engage in immersive experiences to learn about wildlife and conservation.
WVSU 4-H programs are designed with a hands-on approach, whether through an in-school Discovery Day, a field trip to the Wildlife Center or a summer day camp. This approach exposes WVSU 4-Hers to new career possibilities and allows them to grow their soft skills, including teamwork and problem-solving. They are also empowered to become leaders through WVSU 4-H’s trained staff and volunteers’ guidance, tools and encouragement.
At WVSU 4-H, all youth deserve the opportunity to engage in positive development. The program is constantly exploring new ways to address the evolving needs of West Virginia’s youth. Below, you can read more about the curriculum’s pillar areas and current programming opportunities. WVSU 4-H also offers a free Lending Library and online Educational Resource Portal for both formal and non-formal educators, which provides a variety of lesson plans and activities for use at home or in school. For more information, email 4H@wvstateu.edu.
