What is the Congressional Award?

The Congressional Award is the highest honor the United States Congress presents to America’s civilian youth. This prestigious award is open to all youth ages 13.5 to 24, regardless of background, ability, or grade point average. Nevada 4-H is proud to partner with the Congressional Award to ensure that our members have the opportunity to achieve this remarkable recognition for their dedication and hard work.

The program aims to foster the development of well-rounded, responsible young leaders by encouraging personal growth, community service, physical fitness, and exploration. By completing requirements in voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition activities, participants build skills that are crucial for long-term success. The program also emphasizes commitment and accountability, as participants work toward specific goals over extended periods. Through these efforts, the program not only encourages youth to give back to their communities but also nurtures their ability to set and achieve meaningful objectives. Ultimately, the 4-H Congressional Medal is designed to empower young people to become leaders who are engaged, responsible, and ready to make a positive impact in the world.

 

Achieve Bronze, Silver, or Gold with the Congressional Award

Participants in the Congressional Award earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates and Medals by setting and achieving personal goals in four key program areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration.

The Four Areas of the Congressional Award

Trash pickup at Lake Mead with 4-H

Public Service

Volunteering and helping the local community.

Civic Engagement at Capitol Days

Personal Development

Building skills like leadership, teamwork, and more.

Physical Activity Soccer

Physical Fitness

Engaging in sports or fitness activities to improve health.

Teens Hike at Cathedral Gorge

Expedition

Immerse yourself in a new environment or culture.

Program Requirements

Program Bronze Certificate Silver Certificate Gold Certificate Bronze Medal Silver Medal Gold Medal
Voluntary Public Service 30 hours 60 hours 90 hours 100 hours 200 hours 400 hours
Personal Development 15 hours 30 hours 45 hours 50 hours 100 hours 200 hours
Physical Fitness 15 hours 30 hours 45 hours 50 hours 100 hours 200 hours
Expedition or Exploration 1 day 2 days 3 days 2 days, 1 night 3 days, 2 nights 5 days, 4 nights
Total Minimum Months No minimum No minimum 6 months 7 months 12 months 24 months

How to Get Started

  1. Participants must register for the Congressional Award online.
  2. Meet with your 4-H Club Leader to set goals. Not a member of 4-H yet? Join 4-H Today!
  3. Record your progress at you complete hours.
  4. Complete your Online Record Book.

* Registration fee can be waived for youth who qualify for free/reduced lunch

Resources

Learn more about the program contributor(s)

Nora Luna
Team Member
Nora Luna