1. Programs

4-H Youth Development

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Menu [4-H Youth Development]

4-H Outreach Program

4-H provides opportunities for all youth to have access to incredible learning opportunities, fun experiences and life-changing positive relationships.

Oregon 4-H is committed to expanding 4-H opportunities for all youth in Oregon, including culturally relevant, community-driven outreach programs and events that support youth leadership and college access.

In partnership with OSU, other youth programs, organizations and businesses, we encourage youth from diverse backgrounds to develop leadership skills, contribute to their communities and be ready for college, careers and life. This happens through summer camps, conferences, leadership training, clubs and other programs.

Resources and Opportunities

Get step-by-step guidance with the PASOS Colegiales|College STEPS guide.
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Our Impact

700
Number of youth served
700+ youth served
every year through our Outreach programs
250
Volunteers
250 + volunteers
help with delivery of camps and outreach events
950
Involvement
950 + Participants
working together throughout the state to achieve a common goal

4-H Outreach Leadership Program updates

For many years, the Outreach Leadership Institute has been a cornerstone of 4-H outreach programming. OLI will not be offered in 2025-26. During this pause, we are undertaking a comprehensive review and planning process to align and incorporate the impactful elements of OLI with OSU Extension and 4-H youth programs.

This process will help strengthen student support and keep programs relevant, accessible and aligned with the highest standards for youth safety and positive youth development.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the OLI program paused for 2025–2026?

The program is on pause due to two key factors:

  • Leadership transition following the retirement of OLI’s founding director, Mario Magaña.
  • A comprehensive review and planning process to align and incorporate the impactful elements of OLI with OSU Extension and 4-H youth programs.

Will OLI return in the future?

Our goal is to build sustainable youth leadership and college access programming into all OSU Extension youth programs. We will keep the 4-H Outreach webpage updated with resources and upcoming opportunities.

Are you hiring a 4-H Outreach Specialist?

At this time, we are not immediately hiring a 4-H Outreach Specialist position. As part of the comprehensive review and planning process, we will evaluate staffing needs to ensure strong and sustainable outreach programming.

Contact us

Cathy Haas, Oregon 4-H Program Director

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