4-H Marianas, in partnership with Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Services-Family, Community and Youth Development Program, won the National 4-H Council 4-H Raise Your Hand Initiative. The “Raise Your Hand” initiative is a nationwide call-to-action for 4-H alumni, supporters, and friends to vote to win funding for their 4-H state program. This funding helps more kids in their communities benefit from the hands-on learning programs 4-H offers, helping kids serve their community and build critical life skills needed to thrive. The Northern Mariana Islands 4-H Program was awarded $20,000, which surpassed Delaware and Nebraska who received $10,000 and $5,000, respectively. The award will be presented at the National Institute of Food and Agriculture Western Region Joint Deans & Directors meeting in July in New Mexico. 4H meets with youth and families where they live, serves community needs, and builds critical life skills young people need to thrive. According to the National 4-H Council, only one in three youth say they have the skills to handle what life throws their way. “Thank you to all who raised your hands for 4-H Marianas,” said Lorenza Aldan, acting Program leader for the Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Services-FCYD Program. “The funds will be used to sustain existing efforts to build capacity through leadership skills development and workforce preparation.” For more information about 4-H Marianas programs, please visit the NMC CREES website at crees.marianas.edu or on Facebook and Instagram @4HMarianas. (PR)