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USDA, 4-H, Equip Future Leaders to Succeed


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Youth delegates from the 2025 National 4-H Conference stand in front of USDA headquarters in Washington, D.C.
In March, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins spoke at the Iowa Ag Leaders Dinner about how USDA will ensure American agriculture leads the world, feeds the nation, and competes on a global stage that is fair and puts our farmers first.

We will meet those challenges today. The future is also critical, and we are equipping the next generation with the right tools for tomorrow.

4-H imparts skills that sets youth up for success. Nothing is more rewarding than watching young people grow into remarkable adults through the program.

In my family, our county 4-H club is a huge part of our lives. I served as a leader when my children were members, and I am always impressed by what they learn.

More than 400 youth recently attended the annual National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C. This springtime event is the premiere youth development opportunity sponsored by USDA.

4-H youth interact with USDA personnel at the 2025 National 4-H Conference in Washington D.C., on April 15, 2025

“It is interesting seeing how 4-H operates across so many different states,” shares Kaycie Hollrah, Missouri Extension and 4-H Representative from Missouri. “But the moral values are consistent throughout the organization and that is my favorite aspect of the experience.”

Kaycie Hollrah, Missouri Extension and 4-H Representative, at the USDA Risk Management Agency booth

Kaycie Hollrah, who stopped by USDA information booths, joined 4-H when she was six and is a national Youth in Action award winner.

“4-H gives us the ability to become future leaders and develop public speaking and interview skills before we enter the workforce,” she explains.

Even though our kids are now grown, my husband and I continue to serve our county 4-H boards to help youth, like Kaycie, learn valuable life skills.

USDA prioritizes ways to help youth get a stronger start in farming and ranching and strengthen our nation’s agriculture. Learn more about 4-H and how to get involved in your local program on the 4-H website.