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. The planning committee takes advantage of Atlanta's standing as an international city and exposes delegates to as many venues in the city as possible including the Centennial Olympic Park, the World of Coca-Cola, CNN Center, Carter Presidential Library, and the Martin Luther King Center. There are many outstanding 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 $1,400 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 and 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.
2023 National 4-H Congress Application Procedure and Timeline
July 21: Applications are due to the State 4-H Office. (Please check with your county office for their due date!)
July 25: Applicants will be sent an email that will include a scheduled interview date and time.
July 31: Interviews will be conducted virtually between 4–6 p.m.
August 4: Counties and delegates will be notified.
October 24 (tentative): Mandatory orientation meeting will be held for participants and parents.
November 24-28: Delegates will attend National 4-H Congress in Atlanta, Georgia.