Projects provide the basis of the 4-H program by offering various educational experiences. Carrying out a project will help the member "learn by doing" as well as learn "why" things happen the way they do.
4-H Projects
Why projects?
The project is a teaching tool that can be used to develop many desirable traits in addition to the more evident project skills.
Project work is a means to an end, not the end itself. The development of the individual is the most important part
What are projects?
Projects are real life experiences that help 4-H'ers learn to make sound decisions. Projects put the hands and mind to work.
What are the objectives of 4-H projects?
Create a sense of ownership
Give a feeling of achievement
Strengthen family and community ties
Provide members the opportunity to:
- learn project skills
- develop and understand project knowledge
- develop good attitudes
- assume responsibility
- provide healthful competition
- make meaningful decisions
Provide leisure time activities
Explore career opportunities and thus the need for continued education. All projects are, in a sense, career explorative–giving each member a taste of the work and responsibilities involved.
How are projects conducted?
Project work is conducted through various delivery methods:
- project meetings at club, county, or state events
- demonstrations and talks at club meetings, county contests, or state contests
- tours
- family activities or work at home
- exhibiting at the county or state fair
- recordkeeping
- workshops or camps
Project selection is optional for Nebraska 4-H members, with the exception of horse and shooting sports projects. However, youth are encouraged to officially enroll in projects they are interested in. The project enrollment process may help youth learn valuable management skills like goal-setting, record-keeping, planning, and organizing.
2025 Nebraska 4-H Projects
Animal Science
- Beef
- Cat
- Dairy Cattle
- Dog
- Other Pet or Small Animal
- Goat
- Horse
- Poultry
- Rabbit
- Sheep
- Swine
- Veterinary Science
Communication & Expressive Arts
- Communications
- Photography
- Visual Arts
Consumer & Family Science
- Consumer Education
- Heritage
- Home Design & Restoration
- Human Development
- Textile, Quilts & Apparel
Environmental Education & Earth Science
- Conservation & Wildlife
- Entomology
- Forestry
- Shooting Sports: Air Pistol
- Shooting Sports: Air Rifle
- Shooting Sports: 22 Rifle
- Shooting Sports: Archery
- Shooting Sports: BB Gun
- Shooting Sports: Hunting Skills
- Shooting Sports: Muzzleloader
- Shooting Sports: Shotgun
- Shooting Sports: Smallbore Pistol
Healthy Living
- Healthy Lifestyles
- Food & Nutrition
- Safety
Leadership, Citizenship & Personal Development
- Citizenship
- Entrepreneurship
- Leadership
Plant Science
- Agronomy
- Horticulture
- Range
Science, Technology, Engineering & Math
- Rockets
- Computers
- Electricity
- Geospatial
- Physics
- Robotics
- Welding
- Woodworking
CURRICULUM RESOURCES
National Shop 4-H Curriculum Nebraska 4-H Curriculum CLOVER by 4-H
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Judging Philosophy & Ribbon Meaning Printable Project Listing
Can't find what you're looking for? Contact your local Extension office!