(Rural Roots Canada) – The future of agriculture is in the hands of its youth. That’s why the 4-H Foundation is launching a fundraising campaign called Tomorrow Needs 4-H, aimed at raising $1 million to empower young agricultural leaders across Canada.

“4-H Canada helps build youth leaders through its world-class youth programming,” said Ben Graham, Chair of the Canadian 4-H Foundation. “This fundraising campaign is an opportunity for those of us who have benefited from 4-H to give back and ensure future participants can gain unique skills and confidence.” 

The Tomorrow Needs 4-H campaign comes at a time when maintaining financial support for national youth programming in the post-pandemic era is a challenge, according to David Hansen, Chair of the 4-H Canada board of directors. “Financial support through this campaign will enable 4-H Canada to continue to provide life-shaping programs to senior members from across the country.” 

To get the campaign started on the right foot, Farm Credit Canada has committed to matching all donations, up to $50,000.

“The 4-H Canada program has a proven track record of developing youth to take on leadership roles throughout our industry,” said Todd Klink, FCC Executive Vice-President of Marketing and Public Affairs. “FCC is pleased to kickstart the campaign by matching the first $50,000 in donations and we encourage everyone in the agriculture and food community to join us in supporting the Canadian 4-H Foundation.”

READ MORE: Meet the 2024 Reg Schellenberg Next Generation Legacy Award recipient

For over 111 years, 4-H Canada has been one of the most respected youth development organizations in the country, helping nurture responsible and community-focused leaders. It gives them opportunities to develop important skills including self-direction, accountability, responsibility, leadership, and collaboration, skills they’ll carry with them for the rest of their lives.

With Canada’s agricultural sector being one of the drivers of the economy, getting youth involved in agriculture is critical to its future success. According to a 2022 poll by Leger, 44% of alumni are currently working in the ag sector. The poll also showed that 4-H alumni are more confident in their transferable skills than the general public, and have an 88% post-secondary education, surpassing the national average of 75%

To donate to the fundraising campaign, you can visit tomorrowneeds4h.ca