Why 4-H Matters: Building Financial Literacy and Life Skills for the Next Generation

At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we believe in investing in our communities—and that starts with investing in our youth. That’s one of the many reasons we proudly support 4-H. For more than a century, 4-H has been shaping future leaders by teaching responsibility, goal-setting, and the value of hard work. But did you know that it’s also helping kids build smart money habits and essential life skills?

Financial Literacy Starts Early

Through 4-H projects—especially those related to livestock, gardening, entrepreneurship, and record keeping—young people learn how to budget, save, and make wise financial decisions. Whether it’s calculating feed costs, tracking expenses for a sewing project, or deciding how to reinvest earnings from a small business venture, 4-H participants get real-world experience with money management.

These hands-on lessons translate into habits that last a lifetime. By learning how to balance a budget or set savings goals early on, 4-H members are better prepared to make informed financial decisions as adults.

Real Life, Real Responsibility

One of the greatest strengths of 4-H is that it teaches responsibility in a way that sticks. Whether it’s waking up early to care for an animal, preparing a presentation for a fair, or leading a community service project, 4-H instills a sense of accountability and discipline that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

These are the same traits that make for financially responsible adults: the ability to plan ahead, take ownership of one’s choices, and stay committed to a goal.

Leadership and Confidence

4-H isn’t just about projects—it’s about people. Youth involved in 4-H take on leadership roles, speak in public, and collaborate with others in their community. These experiences help young people build confidence and communication skills that serve them well in school, work, and everyday life.

From club meetings to county fairs, 4-H provides countless opportunities for personal growth that go far beyond the classroom.

A Legacy Worth Supporting

At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we see the positive impact of 4-H every day in the young people we meet at fairs, auctions, and community events. Many of our employees are proud 4-H alumni who credit the program with helping shape their values and career paths—including some who chose to go into finance after learning the basics of budgeting in 4-H.

That’s why we’re more than just supporters—we’re partners. We believe in the mission of 4-H because we see its results: strong, capable, financially smart young adults who are ready to take on the world.

Investing in Tomorrow

When we support 4-H, we’re not just supporting a youth program—we’re helping build a stronger, more financially literate future. And that’s a future worth investing in.

We are Farmers & Merchants Bank. Rooted in community. Invested in youth. Proud supporters of 4-H.

NMLS #718145
published on 07/02/2025