State’s largest youth development organization looks ahead as membership climbs
The Texas 4-H Youth Development Program began its 2026-2027 program year this month with membership on the rise and a new online enrollment system in place.
As the largest youth organization in the state, Texas 4-H — an integral part of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service since 1908 — engages young people through hands-on learning experiences, leadership development and community involvement. Programming is offered in all 254 counties to youth, ages 8-18.
Reflecting on the 2025-2026 4-H year, Montza Williams, Ed.D., AgriLife Extension 4-H program director, said the organization experienced a variety of positive changes over the last five months.
“Change can be uncomfortable sometimes, but it allows us to try something different, meet new people, learn from new challenges and forge new paths,” Williams said. “As we move into the new year, which will bring even more change, I encourage all of us to be curious, courageous, creative and to remain connected.”
Expanded access to Texas 4-H
An initiative expected to gain even more momentum this year is the Texas 4-H Champion School Program. Last school year, 29 school-based clubs across 13 counties brought 892 new members into Texas 4-H through the program.
This program, which is offered to public, private, charter and homeschool groups, increases access to Texas 4-H to youth who cannot participate in the traditional 4-H club structure, where youth join community-based clubs and attend meetings and events often during evenings and weekends.
With the increased participation, youth from all walks of life can access programming that cultivates essential life skills like responsibility, public speaking, career exploration and healthy habits.
While there are requirements for participating schools, AgriLife Extension staff work with school officials to customize their program to better meet the unique needs of their students, staff and communities.
Interested schools must apply and meet with program leaders in the fall to be considered. Contact your local AgriLife Extension agent to learn more.
Introducing TX4H online enrollment
Another big change already in effect is a new online enrollment system, TX4H. TX4H was built specifically by AgriLife Extension for Texas 4-H and replaces the previously used system.
“The new TX4H enrollment system allows for more efficient access and easier navigation of online registration because it’s tailored specifically for our 4-H programs,” said Camryn Skaggs, Texas 4-H Council president.
First-time and continuing Texas 4-H members must create an account on TX4H for the new 4-H year, regardless of whether they had a 4-H Online account.
Texas 4-H leadership ‘beyond ready’ for 2026-2027
Williams said this year will build upon the national 4-H initiative, Beyond Ready, which aims to prepare tomorrow’s generation to lead in a world of change.
“Texas 4-H has been producing young citizens beyond ready for work and life since 1908, and this 4-H year, we will continue that tradition,” he said.
Skaggs agreed. She hopes that the variety of Texas 4-H Council members’ individual experiences and skillsets reflect the opportunities available, reaching a broader youth audience and engaging more 4-H members this year.
“I’m so excited to see how Texas 4-H continues to impact rural, suburban and urban communities, reaching every young person whether they’re interested in robotics, animals — large or small, fashion, gardening, or food and nutrition,” she said. “Texas 4-H has something for everyone.”
PHOTO: The Texas State 4-H Horse Show on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the Brazos County Expo in Bryan, TX.(Courtney Sacco/Texas A&M AgriLife)
