4-H International Opportunities
Virginia 4-H has international programs that give young people hands-on international learning experiences by hosting, or being hosted by, someone from another country. Shenandoah County also has an international program of travel to the Dominican Republic for teens to develop language skills, conduct a 4-H Day Camp for Dominican children, and conduct service projects in the local community.
Young people who participate in international programs:
- learn more about other countries and cultures
- develop more understanding of their own culture
- develop an appreciation for social, economic, political, and cultural contributions of all people
- understand how culture affects values, beliefs, and attitudes
- develop independent study interests
- improve language and leadership skills.
This program gives 4-H high school students an opportunity to travel to a Spanish speaking, developing country for one week, and to conduct an environmental 4-H day camp and at least one service project while there. Group fundraising efforts build teamwork skills and help participants defray expenses. Local chaperons accompany the group. Participants are expected to present programs to local groups during the year after they travel.
This program started in Shenandoah County as a grassroots, county based program, which is now in its 17th year. It has been open to 4-H’ers statewide for a few years now. During 2025, Christine Hodges and Carol Nansel is taking two different 4-H teen groups to the Dominican Republic for one week each. Since one main focus of our program in the Dominican Republic is conducting a 4-H Day Camp for Dominican children, this program may especially appeal to our 4-H Camp Counselors.
Every year we have 4-H’ers write a blog and share photos.
Week 1 (July 14-22) Blog
2025 Dominican Republic Flyer
Suggested School Items to Collect for Dominican Republic Trip
Previous Year's Blogs
The IFYE (International Four-H Youth Exchange) program is an in-depth learning experience in which 4-H alumni live with host families in other countries to increase global awareness, develop independent study interests, and improve language skills. Both travel and hosting experiences are available.