The 4-H Youth Development Program of the NIFA (National Institute for Food and Agricutulre) focuses on building lifelong learning skills that develop young people's potential. Programs are designed to engage youth in healthy learning experiences, thus increasing life skills needed to make them productive citizens.

The mission of the 4-H Youth Development program is to create safe, supportive environments in which diverse youth and adults can reach their fullest potential.

Colorado State University Extension in Jefferson County runs a 4-H Mentoring After-School Program at three elementary schools, which help at-risk students develop life skills such as self-esteem, problem solving, cooperation and teamwork.

http://extension.colostate.edu/jefferson/4h/4h-nmp-yfp.shtml