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Cooperative Extension
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Cooperative Extension
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  • 4-H Youth Development

4-H Youth Development

4-H is America’s largest youth development organization. New Jersey youth can experience 4-H through community clubs, in-school and after-school programs, and 4-H camps. Our 4-H programming focuses on the following program project areas: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Communication and the Arts, Healthy Living, Leadership and Civic Engagement, and STEM.

New Jersey 4‑H Youth Development Program

The 4-H Youth Development Program uses a learn-by-doing approach to enable youth to develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills they need to become competent, caring and contributing citizens of the world. This is accomplished by using the knowledge and resources of caring adults.

Learn about the 4-H Program
Somerset County Rabbit, Cavies, Small Animals participant

4-H STEM Ambassador Program

The Rutgers 4‑H STEM Ambassadors Program is an excellent opportunity for teens to learn about STEM, develop as a leader in their community, and prepare for college. Applications will be available in February.

Join the Program
4-H teacher reviewing student work.

Lindley G. Cook 4-H Camp

Lindley G. Cook 4-H Camp has been running Summer Camps since 1951, and they aim to offer the same simple, social, transformative environment they always have. Campers enjoy spending a week at their beautiful facility living in the woods, trying new things and they depart with new friends, increased self-confidence, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Learn about 4-H Camp
4-H Campers pose for a picture while waiting to use the archery range.

Find 4-H In Your County

Find out more about what is happening with 4-H in your county.

View County 4-H Programs
Eco-Maniacs 4-H Club

New Jersey Youth Institute

The New Jersey Youth Institute is a transformative experience at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences for high school students. In collaboration with the World Food Prize Foundation, students from New Jersey come together and learn about critical global issues, network with local leaders, engage in hands-on-activities, and explore exciting ways to become effective change agents in their own communities.

Learn About the New Jersey Youth Institute
Photo of New Jersey Youth Institute students

Upcoming 4-H Events

4-H

Cape Shore Explorers

Saturday, April 25, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. | Rutgers Cape Shore Laboratory, Cape May Court House