Thriving Forward

Introduction We all want to feel good. When asked what they want for their children, most parents respond with some version of, “I just want them to be happy.” How do we become “happy?” First, we need to understand that happiness isn't a “giggle-all-day” feeling, or “never-feel-bad” feeling. Happiness…

Introduction What can grow from a few garden boxes? In Merced County, the answer turned out to be much more than vegetables.During the 2025–2026 school year, Merced County 4-H partnered with expanded learning programs in the rural school districts located in Planada and El Nido to bring hands-on garden,…

IntroductionGreetings to all of our 4-H friends and family. We can't believe it's already July, and we hope that you and yours are able to find some time to rest, relax, and step away from the daily grind during these summer months. A special shout-out to our 4-H folks! Whether you're fresh off the…

Introduction We all want to feel loved. To belong. To matter. To live without fear. We want to have meaningful relationships. We want to know others. We want to be known. These describe the human experience. They describe what it can mean to live a whole life. But as we know, life can sometimes get…

IntroductionThe 4-H Beyond Ready Goal of reaching 10 million youth by 2030 (4-H PLWG Standing Committee, 2025) challenges us to explore new avenues of reaching youth across California and the nation. One promising approach is through collaboration with expanded learning programs (e.g. schools, Boys and Girls…