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-Tuesday), at the Hyatt in Atlanta, Georgia. For over 100 years, youth from the US and its territories have participated in the youth 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 features special presentations by speakers and educators, which address current and timely information. New Jersey sends a delegation of approximately 16-20 4-H members plus chaperones.
Delegate requirements – applicants must:
- Be a 4-H member in good standing and completed at least one full 4-H year.
- Be enrolled in grades 10-13 as of Sept 2023.
- Have demonstrated leadership on the local, regional, or state level.