Search

Citizenship Washington Focus delegates and chaperones in the U.S. Senate Chamber with Senators John Thune and Mike Rounds and Governor Kristi Noem.

Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF)

CWF is a week-long 4-H citizenship program for thousands of 4-H’ers hosted in Washington D.C. each summer.

4-H youth exhibiting a cat to two judges.

South Dakota 4-H Seeks Project Committee Members

October 20, 2021

These committees cover a range in interests, from traditional animal projects and youth-in-action events, to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs.

Book Cover: The Growing Season by Sarah Frey

SDSU Extension to Host Third Community-Focused Book Read

November 01, 2021

“The Growing Season: How I Built a New Life—and Saved an American Farm,” by Sarah Frey, will be the focus of the November/December book read.

Mother with two young children shopping at a holiday craft fair.

Your Town Matters! Shop Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Shopping local allows you to make a difference in your hometown. Locally owned businesses reinvest a large share of their revenue back into the local economy, enriching the whole community.

South Dakota 4-H Program Director Tim Tanner with a group of 4-H youth on the grand staircase inside the South Dakota State Capitol.

South Dakota 4-H’ers Engage in Second Annual 4-H Legislative Session

November 24, 2021

A state-level civic and governmental education program, the second annual South Dakota 4-H Legislature Program concluded Oct. 16, with an in-person debate session held at the South Dakota State Capitol building in Pierre.

Two woman reviewing a building plan in a community workshop.

Truly Authentic Leaders Build Community

Authentic people build successful communities. If community leaders practice and share the habits that foster authenticity, positive change can and will happen.

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

South Dakota 4-H Social Skills Circular newsletter

South Dakota 4-H Social Outcome newsletter for 4-H families and club leaders

A group of young workers sitting at a table putting their hands together.

Advantages Of Rural Community Living

At a Stronger Economies Together session held in Midland, SD in March, I asked the question “how many of you live here because of the quality of life?” Nearly everyone in the room raised a hand. So what is it about the quality of life that we so enjoy? Is it that we don’t have to deal with the hustle and bustle of traffic in the city? Is it the peace and quiet?

Two young children walking in a pasture.

Why Do Young People Leave Our Rural Communities?

It’s no secret that young people are leaving our rural communities in South Dakota. If you read the newspapers or watch the news on television, you also know this isn’t a challenge that only South Dakota communities are facing; it is happening across the nation.

Young entrepreneur meeting with community members.

Connections: An Overlooked Factor in Startup Success

If you are considering starting a business, your community network will be one of your most-important tools. Learn some expert tips for connecting your business with your community today.