COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri 4-H Foundation marks its 75th anniversary this year with plans to highlight impacts from decades of dedication to nurturing young leaders and fostering community development across the state.

Celebrations will include recognition of individuals and programs supported by the foundation, as well as opportunities for friends of 4-H to come together, said Rachel Augustine, director of the Missouri 4-H Foundation.

“Over the past 75 years, the Missouri 4-H Foundation has been instrumental in empowering generations of young people to become confident, capable and compassionate leaders,” Augustine said. “As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we reflect on our rich history of service and look forward to the countless opportunities that lie ahead as we continue to inspire and empower Missouri’s youth.”

Since its establishment in 1949, the Missouri 4-H Foundation has empowered youths through innovative programs, hands-on experiences and mentorship opportunities. The Missouri 4-H Foundation offers more than 70 college scholarships to young people of all backgrounds and provides direct program support to the University of Missouri Extension 4-H Center for Youth Development. The Foundation also manages a group of endowments underpinning the future of 4-H programs across Missouri.

“Missouri has more than 50,000 4-H members, as well as thousands of volunteers, donors and professional staff representing every county in our state,” Augustine said. “With nearly 1,200 4-H clubs and strong partnerships across communities, 4-H continues to have a positive impact on the social, emotional and physical success of our young people – and the adults who support them.”

Founded on the principles of leadership, citizenship and service, the Missouri 4-H Foundation has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing young people with the resources, skills and support necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world, Augustine said.

As the Missouri 4-H Foundation looks forward in its mission of empowering youth to reach their full potential and become catalysts for positive change in their communities, the opportunities are great, she said. A recent study by National 4-H Council found that 4-H alumni are three times more likely to participate in community service and twice as likely to have the goal of being a leader.

Through agricultural education, STEM initiatives, leadership development, community service projects and more, the Missouri 4-H Foundation has adapted to meet the evolving needs of Missouri’s youths, ensuring they are well-equipped to succeed in the 21st century and beyond. Learn more about the Missouri 4-H Foundation, its leadership and upcoming events such as the Clover Classic Golf Tournament at 4h.missouri.edu/foundation.

About Missouri 4-H

Missouri 4-H grows today’s youth and prepares tomorrow’s leaders. With a blend of time-tested traditions and innovative hands-on learning, Missouri youth explore and find their spark in programs ranging from agriculture and conservation to aerospace and career development. Through clubs, programs, camps, in-school and after-school experiences, University of Missouri Extension faculty, staff and thousands of volunteers guide youth in developing essential skills, building confidence and fostering connections. Together, they inspire young people to make a real difference in their communities, their country and the world. To learn more about Missouri 4-H, visit 4h.missouri.edu.

About the Missouri 4-H Foundation

The Missouri 4-H Foundation is the independent philanthropic partner of the University of Missouri Extension 4-H Center for Youth Development. Since 1949, the foundation has secured and managed funds for Missouri 4-H, providing higher education scholarships, recognizing 4-H volunteers and supporting the work of MU Extension 4-H. Learn more at 4h.missouri.edu/foundation.