As the youth program grew and developed, the 4-H mission and purpose became more defined. The use of project clubs is still an effective way to reach youth. Project clubs allow 4-H'ers the flexibility and freedom to explore specific areas of interest within a general topic. Many projects have been designed so 4-H'ers can build and enhance their skills over several years. For example, clothing and textile science projects start with the construction of simple garments, mastering basic skills through the construction of a pillow, simple pants, or skirt.
Clubs often elect officers and committee chairs.
Using elected officers allows youth the opportunity to learn and apply various life skills such as communication and leadership. Club members learn how to negotiate decisions such as participating in a fund raising event or taking a bus trip. In contrast to youth organizations such as Boy and Girl Scouts, which were gender segregated by the organizational leadership, gender segregation in 4-H only occurred as a result of children's selection of projects. The practice of having volunteers lead 4-H clubs was established at the beginning and continues today. Training volunteers is one reason leadership development has become an integral part of the 4-H program.