National 4-H Congress

National 4-H Congress is the flagship event of the 4-H program.  It is a national leadership conference held each year over the Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend (Friday, November 28- December 2, 2025). Youth from the US and its territories have participated in this leadership development conference.  National Congress provides youth with a quality educational and cross-cultural experience.

The program is built upon the Cooperative Extension System’s belief that young people can be significant partners in addressing the issues that face our nation, especially those affecting youth.  Each year a National Design Team of 4-H youth, extension educators, and 4-H adult volunteers analyze current youth issues and determine the most effective ways to address them.  The program combines special presentations, seminars, speakers, and educators present current and timely information.  New Jersey sends a delegation of approximately 20 4-H members plus chaperones.

Delegate requirements:

·         4-H members must have completed at least one full 4-H year, be a registered member by January 1, 2025, and be a member in good standing in order to be eligible to apply.

·         At the time of the event youth must be enrolled in grades 10-13. This means to be eligible to apply, they must be enrolled in grades 10-13 as of September 2025.

·         4-H members must demonstrate excellent 4-H public speaking skills.

·         4-H members must demonstrate leadership on the local level. Leadership at the regional or state level is preferred.

The application can be found HERE

Applications are due to the county office by July 10, 2025

For more information National 4-H Congress (rutgers.edu)