4-H is a voluntary, non-formal education program. The purpose of 4-H is to assist youth in realizing their potential and to help them develop a positive image of themselves. In the broadest sense, 4-H is a human development program designed to foster a sense of confidence, a feeling of accomplishment, and a heightened level of competence. The careful, creative, balanced use of recognition is an element of successful programs.
National 4-H Recognition Model
The National 4-H Recognition Model includes five types of recognition. It is important for adults who work with 4-H’ers to provide appropriate recognition to all participants.
• Recognition of 4-H’ers for participation in educational experiences acknowledges involvement as a first step in building a positive self concept.
• Recognition of progress toward personal goals enables youth to gain experience in goal-setting and realistic self-assessment.
• Recognition of the achievement of generally recognized standards of excellence gives youth an external, pre-determined target for their learning experiences.
• Recognition through peer competition is a strong motivation for some but not all young people. It is not appropriate for youth under age eight.
• Recognition for cooperation helps youth learn and work cooperatively, preparing them for living in today’s inter-dependent, global society.
Recognition of 4-H Members
• Focus on development of each individual 4-H member
• Relate to project work, 4-H club activities, helping other members or sharing experiences
Examples of Recognition for Participation in Educational Experiences
• Participation in 4-H project group
• Participation in a project workshop, tour, etc.
• Submitting a 4-H project record
• Attending a certain number of 4-H meetings
• Participation in the 4-H club meeting program
• Participation in a 4-H project exhibit or show community service project
• Representing the club at county/district/state 4-H activities
Examples of Recognition for Progress Toward Self-Set Goals
• Completing goals set is a 4-H project
• Participation in 4-H project learning experience
• Turning in a completed Member Achievement Plan (MAP)
Examples of Recognition for Achievement of Standards of Excellence
• Hosting a contest in which awards are based on a point system
• Project achievement levels based on completion of preset criteria
• A project show in which members exhibit knowledge or skills
• Exhibit results of their project work
• A judging contest (compared against a standard)
Recognizing 4-H Members for Cooperation
• All young people need to be fully involved in the entire process.
• There need to be mutually agreed upon goals.
• Attention needs to be given to the way the group works.
• The ultimate goal is the satisfaction of being part of a team.
• All members are recognized.
