Oct. 4 Kicks Off National 4-H Week
Published: Friday, October 2, 2026
For more than 100 years, 4-H has inspired families, shaped careers, and impacted communities. From Oct. 4-10, we will celebrate the impact of 4‑H during National 4‑H Week. The theme of this year's National 4-H Week is "Beyond Ready." This theme celebrates how 4-H is building a ready generation in a world of change, equipping youth with skills for the future while meeting them where they are today.
This year, National 4-H Council is asking the 4-H network to activate around two different initiatives.
On Monday (Oct. 5) of National 4-H Week, Go GREEN and show your 4-H State spirit! A simple, cohesive way for youth, professionals, volunteers, alumni and supporters across the country to celebrate their 4-H programs being "Beyond Ready." Wear a green hat, clothing, face paint—anything green goes. Let's paint the nation GREEN, on Oct. 5! Share your 'Go Green' moment on social and tag National 4-H, your State 4-H program, and use: #4HBeyondReady #National4HWeek.
On Thursday (Oct. 8) of National 4-H Week, help us shine a light on all the mentors, educators and volunteers who are making positive impact on you people's lives in 4-H. Share who you're thankful for and celebrate how they are making a difference on Oct. 8. Share your 'Thankful' story on social, tag others in your 4-H community, tag National 4-H and use: #4HBeyondReady #National4HWeek.
In addition to these national activation days, enjoy these fun Michigan engagement opportunities:
A fun way to recognize Michigan 4-H license plate owners and encourage others to show their support by grabbing one for themselves! Raise your hand on social if you've got yours and promote the license plate on Wheels Up Wednesday (Oct. 7).
National 4-H Week is a great time to ask alumni, friends and supporters to join the Michigan 4-H Alumni & Friends network. Help us 4-H supporters connected by the clover by encouraging others to take part in Stay Connected Saturday (Oct. 10).
Michigan 4-H is excited to have the Blue Bridge & Gallery Parking Ramp in Grand Rapids joining us again this year for National 4-H Week as it "goes green" during National 4-H Week. If you are in the Grand Rapids area or traveling through there during National 4-H Week, swing by to grab a photo with the green bridge in the background! Share your photo online using #4HBeyondReady #National4HWeek and tag Michigan 4-H!
It's always a good time to tell 4-H alumni stories, but no time is better than National 4-H Week. Share your person alumni story with Michigan 4-H by submitting it at tinyurl.com/4xdbmnv7.
Here are some other ideas of how you can celebrate 4-H in your community.
• Join Michigan 4-H Alumni & Friends—Were you involved in 4-H as a youth, volunteer or parent? Do you support 4-H and what it does for Michigan youth? If 4‑H has been part of your life—or if you simply care about helping young people thrive—you're invited to join the Michigan 4-H Alumni and Friends network to get connected by the clover!
• Wear Your 4‑H Gear— Nothing says 4‑H pride like a 4‑H tee! Dress yourself (or the family—pets included!) in 4‑H clover gear.
• Shout-Out a 4‑H'er— Recognize the hard work and dedication of 4‑H'ers by shouting out one youth or an entire club on social media, in a local newspaper or other media.
• Storefront Displays/Information Booths—In some communities, you can ask local businesses to display 4‑H posters, flyers, showcase the work of 4-H'ers, or host a table to share information about your local 4‑H program.
• Become a 4‑H Volunteer—If you are a 4‑H alum, parent or recent 4-H graduate, you might be looking for ways to connect with 4‑H. Consider giving your time to a local 4‑H program by becoming a volunteer.
• Share Your 4‑H Story—Take to social media to share a 4‑H memory, express how 4‑H shaped who you are today, describe what 4‑H means to you, post an old 4‑H photo, or shout-out your 4‑H club.
• Have a 4‑H Reunion—Gather your old 4‑H friends and spend some time together reminiscing on your 4‑H experience or recreate a 4‑H project together!
• Give Back—Local programs are always looking for resources to continue growing 4-H for the future. Help programs thrive by making a donation that can help support your county 4-H program.
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