Societal Issue: With the increasing accessibility of the internet and smartphones, our global population has become an ever-connected society in ways that were once unimaginable. These technologies enable us to maintain close bonds across geographical distances, but the social media driven culture can also encourage a destructive need for constant affirmation and instant gratification.
Solution: Participating in group-based organizations and service activities provides youth the opportunities to step outside of themselves, recognize the commonality among all people, and realize how important relationships with others are to the health of ourselves and our communities.
4-H’s Role: 4-H provides many opportunities for youth to engage with others -- whether that be at robotics competitions, the county fair, or 4-H Congress – and at these events, 4-Hers engage with people from different backgrounds with varied life experiences. This exposure to people different from themselves helps 4-Hers develop a mindset of understanding and putting others first to build a better club, community, country and world.