The 4-H Pledge Follows Youth Into Adulthood

Ron Jakubisin, Wash Co. 4-H Educator

I pledge my head to clearer thinking,
my heart to greater loyalty,
my hands to larger service,
and my health to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.

The 4-H pledge is recited at the beginning of each meeting and 4-H events but it runs deeper than just words to get everyone’s attention to start a  meeting. It reminds a youth the meaning behind all the fun stuff happening at a club or project event. But I challenge the reader to go beyond a child today reflecting on the  meaning of the pledge and look at how the pledge might have meaning 5, 10, or 15 years down the road when that child is an adult, in an adult world.

In a youth’s world today, what does the pledge mean? ‘Clearer Thinking’ means: Knowledge, learning, planning, organizing, problem-solving, and decision-making. ‘Heart’ is concern for others, strong personal values, and to one’s own positive self-concept. ‘Hands’ is probably easiest to explain: volunteerism and community service and ‘Health’ is developing a healthy lifestyle for both body and mind, dealing with stress positively, and feeling happy, connected and productive.  

In the future, when that youth is now an adult what might the pledge outcomes be? Head – Academic and/or vocational success. Heart – Contribution to others through civic engagement. Hands – Employability and economic stability. Health – Happiness and well-being.

As a result of 4-H involvement today to engage young people in quality learning opportunities that interest them with positive adult leaders, role models, and mentors, youth will thrive long into the future. Over a period of many years, through their involvement in 4-H, youth grow into adults who are more likely to:

• Find success in the profession or vocation of their choice
• Give back to their communities through their time and talents
• Be happy and have a greater personal sense of well-being over time

That makes 4-H a current investment that is worth making for the long-term well-being of every young person. For more information about the 4-H Thriving Model visit: https://4h.extension.wisc.edu/resources/volunteer-resources/4-h-foundations/4-h-thriving-model