The 4-H American Spirit Experience is an opportunity for youth in grades 8-10 to immerse themselves in history and heritage through a 10-day bus journey to the East Coast and Canada. Staff and volunteers plan and facilitate the experience, while youth participants lead content throughout.   Participants will increase their knowledge of American history by visiting significant sites and gain unique exposure to diverse cultural experiences and perspectives foundational to our nation. This program will also focus on career readiness, leadership development, and experiential learning around history and civics, with an emphasis on diversity and the challenges that different groups of people have faced.  Additionally, participants will develop positive relationships with adults and peers from across the state.

Objectives:

• Enhance Historical Knowledge: Participants will deepen their understanding of American history by visiting significant historical sites and learning about key events and figures.
• Promote Cultural Awareness: Participants will gain exposure to diverse cultural experiences and perspectives, fostering a greater appreciation for the diversity that shapes our nation.
• Develop Leadership Skills: Through leading content and activities, participants will build and refine their leadership abilities, preparing them for future roles in their communities and careers.
• Foster Career Readiness: The program will provide opportunities for participants to explore career paths and develop skills that are essential for future employment, such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
• Build Positive Relationships: Participants will form meaningful connections with adults and peers from across the state, creating a supportive network and enhancing their social capital.

Highlighted Locations:

• Nappanee, Indiana
• Philadelphia,  Pennsylvania
• New York City, New York
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Lexington/Concord, Massachusetts
• Gloucester, Massachusetts
• Salem, Massachusetts
• Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada (A passport will be needed!)

Eligibility

• All youth grades 8-10
• Pre-Registration in 4H Online 2.0 is open starting November 10. Youth and their parent/guardian must complete the online registration together; it includes questions for the youth participant to answer! Register here by November 30: https://2025AmericanSpiritApp.4honline.com
• Each experience is limited to 45 youth

Estimated Cost of Experience is $2,900.