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Girl showing rabbit at State Fair

4-H Volunteers

Volunteers work with 4-H professionals across the state on projects, programs, clubs, judging and leadership opportunities for young people.

4-H youth exhibiting a cat to two judges.

15 Minute Volunteer Lessons and Activities

15-minute lesson plans and activities for 4-H Volunteers to feel supported in their roles and responsibilities when working with youth.

A group of friends gathered inside for a holiday meal.

Thriving in the Cold: How Northern Cultures Build Community to Combat Winter Isolation

Whether it's sharing a meal, enjoying the outdoors, or simply staying in touch, winter is an opportunity to foster connections and build resilience in South Dakota communities.

Two children making fresh pasta

Beyond Ready

4-H is equipped to support youth in becoming Beyond Ready – prepared to plan and navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

a man presenting in front of a group of young people.

Conference and Teens

Leadership development has long been a focus (and result) of the 4-H experience. SDSU Extension's 4-H program recognizes the tremendous individual and public value that results when our empowered members develop essential leadership skills.

Series of trophies on display at a 4-H contest.

South Dakota State 4-H Scholarship Application

4-H Scholarship application for South Dakota 4-H members.

People shopping inside De Smet small business.

Are Chamber Bucks a Thing of the Past or Still a Viable Economic Development Tool?

For many communities, Chamber Bucks, sometimes called community gift certificates or local currency, have been a long-standing tradition. Today, they remain a simple, meaningful way to keep dollars working close to home while supporting businesses that invest in your community.

4-H, Special Foods, Youth boy and girl cooking in kitchen, State Fair

Educational Opportunities

At the state level, 4-H opportunities are generally broken into the three Cs: camps, competitions  and conferences.

Five youth smile for the camera holding a sign that says "South Dakota"

SDSU Extension 4-H members participate in national FCS competition

February 17, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension 4-H members won second place in the national Family and Consumer Sciences Skill-a-thon.

A map of South Dakota indicating libraries that are participating in the Rural Libraries Hotspot Lending Program

SDSU Extension collaborates with AARP South Dakota and rural libraries to provide better internet access

February 17, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is collaborating with AARP South Dakota and South Dakota’s public libraries to give the state’s rural citizens better access to the internet.