Summer Conference Opens Doors to New Possibilities
For more than 100 years, Oregon 4-H Summer Conference has helped young people discover their strengths, build leadership skills, and imagine new possibilities for their future. Each summer, youth from across Oregon gather on the Oregon State University campus for a transformative experience filled with learning, connection, service, and personal growth.
In 2026, youth representing counties across Oregon traveled to Corvallis to participate in Summer Conference. For many, it was their first opportunity to live on a college campus, meet peers from outside their community, and explore what their future might hold.
Dam Proud Day Provides Support for Oregon 4-H
What began as a statewide day of giving has become something even bigger for Oregon 4-H: a growing movement of donors, volunteers, alumni, and communities working together to create opportunities for young people across Oregon.
On April 29, 2026, Oregon 4-H experienced its most successful Dam Proud Day (Beavs Give) yet. Supporters made a record-breaking 245 gifts, surpassing the previous year's total of 157 gifts and demonstrating growing enthusiasm for both local and statewide 4-H programs. Donations totaled $112,985, supporting everything from county-based projects and local programming needs to Oregon 4-H Summer Conference.
Clovers for a Cause Celebrates Oregon 4-H Statewide Programs
In October 2025, the Oregon 4-H Foundation launched its inaugural Clovers for a Cause campaign, a 10-day online fundraising effort celebrating National 4-H Week and showcasing the wide variety of statewide opportunities available to Oregon youth. Held October 2-11, the campaign invited donors, alumni, volunteers, families, and community partners to invest in programs that help young people learn, lead, and thrive. While county programs have traditionally been highlighted through Oregon State University's Dam Proud Day campaign, Clovers for a Cause was created to shine a spotlight on the statewide experiences that enrich the lives of more than 19,000 Oregon 4-H youth.
Investing in Tomorrow’s Leaders
Sterling and Cheryl Allen's journey with 4-H began in the fields and fairgrounds of Oregon, where they first discovered their passion for agriculture and community. Today, their commitment to OSU Extension’s 4-H program extends beyond their own experiences, aiming to provide leadership opportunities for Oregon’s rural youth through a thoughtful planned estate gift with the Oregon 4-H Foundation.
Dam Proud Day Makes a Difference for Oregon 4-H Youth
Every spring, Beaver Nation comes together for Dam Proud Day (Beavs Give), Oregon State University's annual day of giving. During this 24-hour celebration of generosity, alumni, friends, families, faculty, staff, and supporters invest in programs that strengthen Oregon State University and communities across Oregon.
Janice Cowan Professorship for Baker County 4-H
“4-H played a pivotal role in my life. 4-H taught me how to cook, sew and can,” Connie said. “We believe an endowment is the best way to ensure that funds are always available to support leadership for these young people. We hope our challenge grant will encourage others to financially support Baker County 4-H.”
Campbell Family Small and Companion Animal Program Faculty
The Campbell Family 4-H Small & Companion Animal Endowment, established by the Banfield Charitable Trust and Scott and Sandy Campbell in 2014, provides support for small and companion animal programs at the discretion of the 4-H State program leader.
Leonard and Brenda Aplet Financial Literacy Professor
“Brenda and I are thrilled to be able to help promote financial literacy and feel the Oregon 4-H program is uniquely positioned to lead that effort,” Leonard said. “With the strong backing of Oregon State University, the Oregon 4-H program has been a national leader in promoting innovative programs for young people. We are excited to see the financial literacy program unfold and hope that our gift is only the beginning.”