“Find Your Spark” is the theme of this year’s National 4-H Week, observed Oct. 3-9.

The theme celebrates the resilience of young people who have brought about significant innovations in agriculture and technology, says Lupita Fabregas, director of the University of Missouri Extension 4-H Center for Youth Development.

“In Missouri 4-H, we offer all youth the opportunity to find their spark!” Fabregas says. Through a variety of educational programs, 4-H members choose their own paths to success, she says. “By providing caring adult mentors who have a passion about what they do, we are able to give youth hands-on experiences to help them on their spark.”

On Sept. 7, Gov. Mike Parson signed a proclamation designating Oct. 3-9 as National 4-H Week in Missouri and encouraging Missourians to recognize 4-H’s significant role in empowering youths in the state.

National 4-H Week is celebrated across Missouri in many ways, Fabregas says. Many clubs use this time to kick off the new 4-H programming year with window displays, yard signs, radio spots and fun family activities such as scavenger hunts and scarecrow contests. Some clubs use this time for service-learning projects, like thanking first responders or veterans for their service. This is also a popular time for awards and recognition nights when youths are celebrated for completing projects.

The Wednesday of National 4-H Week is always 4-H Spirit Day. Many 4-H’ers use this day to recruit new members.

To learn more about National 4-H Week, click here!