Imagine. Immerse. Ignite!

Join the NJ Delegation of 4-H memebers for IGNITE- a 4 day experience where high school aged teens connect, make memories and find their spark by exploring the best 4-H has to offer in STEM, Agriscience, Health Living, Career Readiness and Emotional Well-being

This event has passed. Come back for application information for next year!

Grades 10-12 as of September, 2025

National 4-H Congress is a unique leadership opportunity for 4-H members from all 50 states. The event focuses on leadership, youth empowerment, community service, career development, and cultural diversity. The event brings over 1,000 4-H members to Atlanta over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. There are many outstanding visits and  workshops along with keynote addresses that round out the experience. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for 4-H members.

New Jersey sends approximately 10-20 4-H members and two adult chaperones to the event each year. One to three delegates are nominated from each county and then final delegates are selected through a state interview process. The cost of the event is approximately $1,650 and includes air transportation, registration, lodging, and most meals. All interested 4-H members must be in grades 10-12 at the time of the trip, must complete an application and go through a county and state selection process. Participants can only attend this event one time during their 4-H career. Please ask for scholarship applications if interested. The application for National 4-H Congress can be found here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RTMYDEHESKRMCnFBdxHYMPFdg29ApVCr/view?usp=drive_link

For more details click here: https://nj4h.rutgers.edu/leadership/nat4hcongress/

July 9, 2025 - applications due to the Morris County 4-H office

Interviews -  July  29-30, 2025

Event Dates - November 28 - December 2, 2025  

Bringing hundreds of 4-H’ers to the nation’s capital each Spring, National 4-H Conference is the flagship youth development opportunity of USDA, hosted by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The nationally recognized event is developing the next generation of leaders. Experience unparalleled discovery, learning, professional development, and networking with 4-H’ers from around the world. During the Conference, delegates will become familiar with the government and future career opportunities and share their voice with federal agencies and congressional committees. 

This event has passed. Come back for application information for next year!