Thank you for being part of the 4‑H community. Whether your connection is new or long‑standing, you help create space for young people to learn, grow, and thrive. This month, we're reflecting on mentorship and the everyday ways support and encouragement make a lasting difference.
Voice Of Youth Mentorship That Made a Difference
I'm Luke Stephens, an Alabama 4‑H alum, and I didn't always see myself as a leader.
I joined 4‑H as a shy kid, unsure of my voice, until someone saw my potential before I did. I was blessed with incredible mentors like Mrs. Wendy Padgett, who pushed me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to believe in myself.
From my first swine project to stepping into leadership roles, she was right beside me, helping me build confidence, skills, and a vision for what was possible. Because of her mentorship, I'm prepared to take on new challenges and give back as a member of National 4‑H Council's Young Alumni Advisory Committee.
Mentorship doesn't just change moments, it shapes futures.
Yesterday, I was fortunate to recognize my mentor, Wendy, with a bouquet of flowers made possible by National 4‑H Council's partnership with Crayola Flowers. It's my hope that you too, will thank your mentor this month.
– Luke Stephens, Alabama 4‑H Alumnus
Moments That Matter Say Thank You to a Mentor Who Made a Difference💚
Mentors come in many forms—volunteers, teachers, coaches, caregivers, or someone who simply showed up when it mattered most.
We've created a simple fill‑in‑the‑blank message you can use to thank a mentor—a caring adult who helped you grow.
Because of you, I learned _____.
You helped me believe _____.
Your support changed _____.
Thank you for being someone I could count on.
Whether you send it in a text, an email, or say it out loud on a quick call, a few words can mean more than you know.
Bake Something Meaningful This January
This month's free 4‑H Discover Box is all about creating something by hand and sharing it with someone special.
Inside, you'll find everything you need to bake a treat. Turn it into a meaningful thank‑you for a mentor, caregiver, or someone who's supported you along the way.
It's a simple way to spend time together, share a story, and say thank you.
The 2025 Beyond Ready Signing Season event at Purdue University was more than a celebration—it was a moment where students could truly begin envisioning their futures. Throughout the day, they connected with mentors, expanded their professional networks, and took meaningful steps toward shaping their next chapter.
Thanks to the support of 4‑H partner Corteva Agriscience, a dedicated group of employee mentors helped bring the experience to life. They spent intentional time with students—sharing personal stories, offering practical guidance, and encouraging them as they explore the many pathways ahead.
Join The Movement
Mentorship thrives when people choose to take action.
4‑H creates opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and lead, because supporters like you step forward in meaningful ways. Whether you give, volunteer, share your story, or stay connected, your involvement helps ensure more youth are Beyond Ready for college, career, and life.
There are several ways you can join the movement today:
Donate to support programs and experiences that connect young people with caring mentors.
👉 MAKE A GIFT
Share your 4‑H alumni story to help show the lasting impact of mentorship and leadership.
👉 SHARE YOUR STORY
Join CLOVER, the new digital community for 4‑H supporters, alumni, and friends. CLOVER makes it easy to stay connected, discover opportunities, and engage with 4‑H in new ways.
👉 JOIN CLOVER
Together, these actions help strengthen the movement and expand access to the relationships and experiences that help youth thrive.
Beyond Today
As we celebrate mentorship this month, we're also looking ahead.
4‑H continues to invest in relationships, programs, and opportunities that help young people build leadership, resilience, and a sense of purpose. These are skills that last far beyond today.
Coming later this year, we're excited to share more about:
Our alumni networking platform launching in Summer 2026
Signing Season (April 2026)
March Match‑ness, a new and exciting way for supporters like you to stay connected and help youth be Beyond Ready
Together, we are building what's next for 4‑H, and we look forward to sharing more soon.
4-H welcomes kids of all beliefs and backgrounds, helping them find their spark, build real—world skills, and become resilient, adaptable, lifelong learners.
National 4-H Council, 655 15th Street N.W., Suite 220, Washington, D.C., xxxxxx
