In California, it is an off campus, non-credit, voluntary education program, and is available to young people regardless of race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sex, mental or physical handicaps. At the national level, 4-H is under the leadership of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The program is delivered by volunteer adults who serve as 4-H leaders and are considered volunteer faculty members of the University of California. Through the 4-H advisors in the University of California Cooperative Extension office, volunteers have access to research and information from the University. In 4-H, volunteer leaders encourage youth to gain knowledge, learn practical life skills and to apply both in their project area.
Members learn to work together in a team and develop a sense of fair play.
As 4-H members mature they have the opportunities to learn and practice leadership skills within their own club or group and at county activities. They also begin to develop an appreciation and understanding of their community through individual or group projects. Members improve their communication skills through club or group interaction, 4-H record keeping and presentations. They also develop positive attitudes about themselves and others, learn basic health and safety practices, acquire educational and vocational experiences and learn how to set realistic goals for themselves through individual time management. These skills do not take place all at once, but develops gradually as members continue their involvement in 4-H under the direction of their leaders.