ST. LOUIS, Mo. – To cultivate the next generation of leaders in science, Bayer is partnering with 4-H to bring Bayer employees and 4-H volunteers together to work with young people and show why science matters to everyone through the “Science Matters” program.

Going beyond textbook learning, “Science Matters” will help St. Louis youth see how science connects to multiple aspects of their lives—from the food they eat and the plants that surround them to their own health. Youth will work with volunteers from Bayer to identify community challenges that can be solved using science and then come up with action plans to find solutions.

“We are very excited to partner with Bayer to provide our 4-H youth with new opportunities to learn more about agriculture and to discover potential career paths,” said Amanda Meek, University of Missouri Extension 4-H youth development specialist.

In addition to the “Science Matters” program, Missouri youth have an opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned about science through the “Why Science Matters to Me” photo contest. There are two ways to enter:

1. Visit www.4h.org/sciencematters and submit your photo along with a caption that explains how science makes a difference in your life.
2. Enter with Instagram. Share a photo of you with a caption that explains why science matters to you. Be sure to tag it with #ScienceMattersContest.

By entering, youth will be entered for the chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the National Youth Summit on Agri-Science, Jan. 12-15, 2018. Three winners will be selected.

For more information, contact Amanda Meek at 314-400-7386.

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About 4-H

4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly 6 million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. The youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA, 4-H serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower 1 million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities, and two times more likely to make healthier choices, be civically active and participate in STEM programs.

Learn more about 4-H at www.4-H.org, on Facebook at facebook.com/4-H and on Twitter at twitter.com/4H.