What does "4-H" stand for?

The four H's in 4-H stand for head, heart, hands and health. The organization known as 4-H welcomes members from ages 9 through college, with some states having special clubs for children who are 5 through 8.

Each of the four H's corresponds to value groups the organization teaches and promotes. "Head" encompasses skills relating to thinking and management, while "heart" endorses the characteristics of relating to and caring for others. "Hands" symbolizes giving and working, and "health" teaches young people about being and living. Organizations are typically run by the local extension department office, and while agriculture is a common focus, 4-H is not limited to agricultural concerns.