The investment supports 4-H programs designed to prepare young people for careers and leadership roles in rural communities. Lisa-Blue/E+ photo
Rural 1st is increasing its investment in youth development through an expanded partnership with the US National 4-H Council, committing $500,000 to support leadership, career exploration and agricultural education programs through 2028.
The funding will expand support for the organization’s Beyond Ready initiative, a national effort aimed at helping prepare 10 million young people with the skills needed for future careers and life experiences. Rural 1st and the National 4-H Council first partnered in 2024.
The investment will help strengthen several youth-focused programs, including Ignite by 4-H, a national leadership conference for teenagers; Lead to Change, which encourages youth to address challenges within their communities; and the Beyond Ready Innovation Fund, which supports state-led youth development initiatives.
“Young people will play an important role in the future of rural communities,” said Art Whaley, Chief Lending Officer at Rural 1st. “4-H gives them opportunities to explore careers, build leadership skills and bring new ideas back to the places they call home. We’re proud to help more young people have those opportunities.”
According to the organizations, the expanded partnership is intended to provide more young people with opportunities to develop workplace skills, leadership abilities and community engagement experience.
“When young people are given the opportunity to lead, they bring fresh ideas and real solutions to their communities, demonstrating that our 4-H'ers are Beyond Ready for the future,” commented Heather Elliott, National 4-H Council's Chief Development and Marketing Officer. “Rural 1st’s investment helps more 4-H youth build the skills and confidence to make a lasting impact.”
In addition to financial support, Rural 1st employees participate in 4-H programming through financial literacy and career exploration activities. During Ignite by 4-H events, team members help lead educational workshops focused on solving challenges facing rural communities.
The organizations said the continued collaboration is designed to help young people gain practical experience and leadership skills that can benefit agriculture and rural communities in the years ahead.
Rural 1st is the consumer lending division of Farm Credit Mid-America, a financial services cooperative whose purpose is to secure the future of rural communities and agriculture. Rural 1st offers tailored product options for lot, land, construction, and home loans for those who want to live rurally. For more information, visit www.Rural1st.com.