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4‑H Youth Development
One in three age-eligible young Nebraskans take part in 4‑H, America’s largest youth development organization. Through 4‑H, these young people gain experiences that help them become skilled employees, creative thinkers and good citizens. Nebraska Extension not only brings 4‑H to Nebraska; we bring a vast array of University resources and research—partnering with schools, after-school programs and youth organizations to provide curriculum and educational content. The result? Young Nebraskans inspired to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math. Underserved populations with more opportunity to create and contribute. More kids discovering their true passions, talents and career opportunities. And the next generation of Nebraskans ready to enhance our workforce and become responsible community leaders.
Nebraska 4-H provides youth with positive youth development opportunities that prepare them to become healthy, capable, and ready to engage in school, work, and life.
See how we engaged Youth and Volunteers in 2024
UNL Events
Big Red Summer Academic Camp registration is now open!
Registration for Big Red Camps is now open! Big Red Summer Academic Camps are residential career exploration camps held at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. By participating in a camp, youth live on and explore the Nebraska campus, meet students from across the country, investigate an interest or potential career, and have lots of fun making new friends. (This is not a commuter camp). During the week-long camps, students will work with university faculty to explore the topic of their particular camp, like engineering, digital media, or food systems. After spending several fun-filled days on campus, families are invited to attend a capstone presentation where students showcase their achievements.
Big Red Summer Academic Camps are open to students going into grades 9-12 during the 2026-2027 school year. Housing and food are provided. Space is limited, and camps will fill on a first-come, first-serve basis. To ensure the optimal co-hort learning experience, each camp sets a maximum registration. A waitlist option will be available. Please see Camp Sessions for a list of camps offered, descriptions, capacity, costs, and scholarship opportunities.
Big Red Summer Academic Camps are hosted by Nebraska Extension 4‑H Youth Development and University faculty members in various academic areas across campus.
Scholarships: Some camps offer scholarships unique to their academic discipline. Big Red Camps also offers scholarships that may be applied to any camp experience.
For more information and to register please go to the Big Red Camp website