It is important to remember that the underlying purpose of all 4-H projects and activities is to help youth thrive by developing important skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives. These are what we call life skills, and they are interwoven into every aspect of 4-H, providing the bigger picture and the bigger “why” of the 4-H program. Life skills will help youth become positive, productive citizens living fulfilling lives.

Iowa State University Extension developed a Targeting Life Skills Model that helps to connect all of the many activities in 4-H to corresponding life skills as well as connecting them to the elements of the 4-H Pledge: Heart, Hands, Head, and Health. This model helps us remember to always keep the bigger “why” in mind when we plan programming for youth. As we help youth reflect upon their 4-H experiences and connect their projects to the life skills they are gaining, they develop a sense of purpose, self-awareness, and confidence in their endeavors.