![sarasota county extension staff members and 4-h youth interact during a summer camp activity (2024). [credit: uf/ifas extension sarasota county]](/media/sfylifasufledu/sarasota/images/banner1650x330/IMG_3193_adjustSHAD_CROP1650x330.png)
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization. Over 230,000 members in the State of Florida help to make up the community of more than 6.5 million young people across America. 4-H is a non-formal, practical educational program for youth. Florida 4-H is the youth development program of Florida Cooperative Extension, a part of the University of Florida IFAS. 4-H uses a learn-by-doing approach and caring adults to help youth gain the knowledge and life skills they need to be productive, responsible citizens.
Learn more about how Extension is helping create positive change in youth, families, and communities, through the following programs:
Provides hands-on learning opportunities to area youth through the support of educators, volunteers, and community youth organizations with curricula, training and non-traditional activities focused on citizenship, healthy living, science, technology, engineering and math. Learn more.
![group portrait of sarasota county extension volunteers and staff, gathered on stage during an annual volunteer appreciation party. [credit: uf/ifas extension sarasota county]](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2026/04/2026_Vols_volApprnParty_group01_CROP1650x470TINY-640x357.png)
