Ohio lawmakers welcome Central State University’s 4-H Urban Farmer Youth Initiative to the Statehouse

Above: State Sen. Paula Hicks-Hudson (D-Toledo) passes "Buckeye State" pins as souvenirs to participants in the 4-H Urban Farmer Youth Initiative at the Ohio Statehouse.

Central State University Extension’s 4-H Urban Farmer Youth Initiative participants received a warm welcome at the Ohio Statehouse during an inspiring visit that highlighted their commitment to agriculture and community development.

Ohio Senate President Rob McColley (R-Napoleon) greeted the enthusiastic group of young urban farmers with a photo opportunity in the historic Senate Chamber. As the March 26 session began, Sen. McColley yielded time to Sen. Paula Hicks-Hudson (D-Toledo), who proudly introduced the group on the Senate floor — recognizing more than a dozen youth who are gaining hands-on experience in agriculture through this impactful program.

Sen. Hicks-Hudson played a key role in advancing opportunities for these future leaders, co-sponsoring legislation that secured $250,000 in the state’s 2024-25 operating budget to launch the Urban Farmer Youth Initiative Pilot Program. The funding supports youth ages 6–18 in urban areas by providing them with enriching educational experiences in farming and agriculture. Thanks to this support, Central State University Extension is expanding its reach and inspiring a new generation of agricultural innovators.

This visit celebrated the program’s success and underscored the importance of investing in youth development, food systems, and urban agriculture across Ohio.