Pima County Parents’ Perceptions on How 4-H Builds a Sense of Community and Life Skills for Youth (Ages 8–18)

Abstract

This study examines the perceptions of parents in Pima County, Arizona, regarding the effectiveness of 4-H programs in developing key life skills and fostering a sense of community among youth aged 8 to 18. Rooted in the Targeting Life Skills Model, the research specifically focuses on five core competencies: leadership, communication, self-responsibility, problem-solving, and community connection. Recognizing that parents are critical stakeholders in youth development, the study sought to understand their viewpoints on how 4-H programs support these developmental outcomes. Data were collected through a structured online questionnaire distributed to parents of actively enrolled 4-H participants. A total of 53 valid responses were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings reveal strong parental support for the role of 4-H in enhancing communication and problem-solving skills, with slightly more varied perceptions in the area of leadership development. Additionally, parents reported that 4-H fosters a meaningful sense of community among youth, strengthening social bonds and civic engagement. Demographic variables such as the number of years involved in 4-H and types of projects participated in were considered in interpreting the results. The study highlights the importance of experiential learning and parental involvement in successful youth programs. Recommendations include expanding leadership opportunities, increasing outreach and diversity in project offerings, and creating more formal structures for parental feedback. By addressing these areas, 4-H programs in Pima County can continue to evolve as impactful tools for positive youth development, with parental perspectives playing a key role in program evaluation and improvement.