Abstract
This article builds on Part 1 of this study, a state-of-the-art review that synthesizes 45 years of scholarship (1980–2025) on 4-H’s efforts to equitably serve a demographically representative youth population (see Elliott-Engel & Howard, 2026). This article examines the findings that draw from the previously discussed 99 articles and provides the next directions for achieving a demographically representative 4-H program by synthesizing crosscutting themes from 45 years of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging scholarship. Despite meaningful progress, persistent gaps remain in participation, professional readiness, and systemlevel integration. Our review highlights the need for culturally responsive recruitment, familycentered engagement, and program adaptations that move beyond the traditional club model while retaining high-quality positive youth development principles. Structural barriers—including political resistance, resource inequities, and inconsistent implementation—continue to limit progress. This article outlines implications for practice, organizational change, and leadership, emphasizing that sustained, systemic transformation is essential for 4-H to truly serve all youth.
Recommended Citation
Elliott-Engel, Jeremy and Howard, Jeff Wayne
(2026)
"4‑H Efforts Toward Demographic Representation, 1980–2025: Next Directions (Part 2),"
Journal of Youth Development: Vol. 21:
Iss.
2, Article 20.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.34068/jyd.21.02.20
Available at:
https://open.clemson.edu/jyd/vol21/iss2/20
Included in
Child Psychology Commons, Civic and Community Engagement Commons, Community-Based Learning Commons, Developmental Psychology Commons, Leadership Studies Commons
