From Cloverbuds to Beyond Ready—Meeting Developmental Needs for Youth Retention

The 2025 PYD Academy learning opportunities are your gateway to engaging with 4-H's transformative new national initiative, Beyond Ready! While Beyond Ready introduces fresh approaches, it is deeply rooted in the principles of high-quality Positive Youth Development (PYD). By participating in these opportunities, you'll enhance your PYD practices and discover actionable ways to contribute to Beyond Ready.

Join us for the conference and immersions—an immersive blend of virtual events designed to elevate your skills, connect you with peers, and empower you to prepare youth for success in work and life. Can't make it to one of the sessions? No problem! By registering, you will have access to all event recordings and resources. Check out the Agenda to learn more about these valuable opportunities to deepen your expertise and enhance your impact in 4-H programming.

4-H PYD Academy Research to Practice Conference

February 4-6, 2025 (12:00pm-3:30pm ET)

The ambitious Beyond Ready goal of reaching 10 million prepared youth hinges on retaining the youth already engaged in your programs. This conference will focus on the science of youth development, highlighting the latest research on "ages and stages" with a special emphasis on the new science of adolescence. 

You'll explore practical strategies to meet developmental needs and foster long-term youth engagement in your programs. Each day features a keynote presentation from a leading expert, followed by interactive sessions to translate insights into actionable practices that enhance youth retention. 

Immersions

March 5, April 2, and May 7, 2025 (12:00pm-3:30pm ET)

The 4-H PYD Academy Research to Practice Conference follow-up trainings are designed to provide a practical and comprehensive understanding of how 4-H programs are effectively implementing the Beyond Ready concept.

Immersion days offer an in-depth exploration of strategies and practices 4-H professionals can apply in their programs. Each Immersion day will feature lightning presentations from eight exemplary programs across the country, centered on the day's theme, followed by interactive breakout sessions.

4-H PYD Academy equips 4-H and other youth development professionals with the essential knowledge and skills to plan, implement, and evaluate high-quality youth development programs that help youth thrive. 4-H PYD Academy is an output of the 4-H PLWG Chartered Committee on Positive Youth Development. 4-H PYD Academy learning opportunities are convened and supported by National 4-H Council in collaboration with Extension 4-H professionals from across the country.