About social capital

Social Capital is the connection among individuals and their social networks and the norms of reciprocity and trust that develop from that connection (Putnam, 2000). The presence of social capital is a predictor of community action and engagement, which facilitates and enhances productive community development (Agnitsch, Flora & Ryan, 2006). Through ties and connections formed in the development of social capital at the family, neighborhood, school and community level, young people gain access to a multitude of opportunities, experiences and forms of support in the areas of education, jobs and careers, emotional growth and life skills development. These connections and opportunities create successful transition to adulthood and a productive engaged citizenry (Benson, 1997; National Research Council Ad Institute of Medicine, 2002; Scales et al, 2000).

The need & issues

Youth-at-Risk: Large numbers of youth and young adults, particularly in urban areas, are disconnected from school, the workforce, and community institutions due to community and neighborhood factors such as social isolation, lack of economic opportunities, and school failure. Youth workers attempting to benefit individual youth may not intentionally provide opportunities to engage in their communities and develop strong, positive and productive relationships. There are missed opportunities to include community connections in youth activities.

Community Vitality: When young people do not feel attached to their communities of place, do not understand the assets available to them, and feel that they have to leave the community to get ahead, communities suffer. We posit that a lack of social capital among young people in communities makes community action and engagement more difficult and results in fewer cooperative endeavors and less long term positive community development.

Connections to 4-H

4-H is well-positioned to support all youth in developing relationships, networks, and connectedness to help them and their communities thrive. As the nation’s largest youth development organization, 4-H is built upon youth-adult partnerships which encourage shared leadership and active participation by youth and adults in their communities over time. Social capital can encompass 4-H youth forming lasting friendships with peers and staff, receiving mentorship by caring adult volunteers, meeting and exchanging ideas with elected officials, and working in partnership with community residents to achieve desired change. Because young people do not all have the same access to social networks and relationships, 4-H can provide an intentional approach to youth gaining skills, resources, and opportunities they need to be connected both now and in the future.

Learn more about social capital & how 4-H participation contributes.

Research team purpose