4-H Sets Members on a Trajectory for Success
Nancy N., 4-H Youth Development & Agriculture Program Assistant
Trajectory is an interesting word. The derivation of the noun is Latin. The definition of trajectory is:
- the curve that a body (such as a planet or comet in its orbit or a rocket) describes in space.
- a path, progression, or line of development in one’s career and life.
The latter definition is our focus for Douglas County 4-H & Youth Development.
A 4-H trajectory may begin as early engagement to spark curiosity in project work in Cloverbud programs that offer simple introductory games and activities.
That “spark” coupled with a positive experience will encourage further engagement and skill-building. As 4-H club members the youth would complete project work receiving constructive feedback through club day and county fair competition. Meanwhile opportunity for responsibilities in the club setting grow under the mentorship of club leaders.
As active 4-H members, there are many leadership roles that nurture and expand confidence and further a set of life skills. As members step into leadership positions as club officers, and representatives on the county 4-H council they gain a voice in decisions that affect the overall program.
The teens who become 4-H Ambassadors work together as a team with adult advisors to promote 4-H at countywide events. In this capacity they are the “face of 4-H” and role models for other youth. The leadership roles youth assume at this stage in their 4-H career are empowering! There is growth in their confidence, they readily take on public-facing roles and adopt extemporaneous speaking skills.
There are state-sponsored events on K-State Campus that offer exposure to college life and time out-of-county and away from their comfort-zone. This readies them for their next chapter as young adults.
This is from the National 4-H website speaking to Beyond Ready initiative:
We are also the only organization with a scientifically proven approach to developing young people, backed by more than 20 years of longitudinal research in partnership with Tufts University. The data is clear: youth who participate in 4-H programs are more likely to succeed academically, engage civically, and contribute to their communities. They’re also more prepared to enter the workforce and navigate the complexities of life with confidence.
We, as 4-H Professionals, continue to utilize and adapt a 4-H Thrive Model which outlines key milestones and capabilities that youth develop at different stages of their lives. It is a recipe for continued success as noted by this anecdotal example.
Lauren Seybold, Douglas County 4-H Alum, was recently lauded for academic achievement in K-State news! Lauren, a 2024 Lawrence High School Graduate, was a 10-yr member of the Four-Leaf Clover 4-H Club. She mastered several project areas, winning county and state awards. She served her club in various officer roles, was a 4-H Ambassador and DgCo 4-H Council President. Post-graduation and after a year of undergraduate work, she returned to our office as a Summer Intern in 2025. Now she is recognized for her outstanding undergraduate work!