4-H is the youth development program of Washington State University Extension. As the largest youth development organization in Washington, 4-H reaches nearly 80,000 young people. The 4-H Youth Development Program helps young people and adults put knowledge to work in all of Washington's 39 counties, cities and towns.

4-H teaches life skills that lead young people to become self-directing, positive, contributing members of our society. These life skills include positive self-esteem, effective communcation, a sense of responsibility to oneself and one's community, sound decision making and a strong sense of belonging. These skills give young people the tools necessary for successful adulthood. The 4-H mission is reached through a number of delivery methods that relate to the total concept of youth development.

The 4-H Youth Development Program is a partnership between federal, state, tribal and local governments, Washington State University, the United States Department of Agriculture, professional staff, volunteers and youth.