4-H and Universal’s ‘Wicked’ inspire youth to lead with heart

Young people have the power to spark change, and that energy is taking center stage through a partnership between 4-H and NBCUniversal.

In celebration of Universal Pictures’ “Wicked: For Good,” the epic conclusion to the global cinematic “Wicked,” phenomenon, NBCUniversal is supporting 4-H youth who show the world the powerful impact that young leaders can make when they act with purpose — and a little green.

4-H is an official nonprofit partner of the upcoming film, which opens in theaters on November 21. For 4-H’s 6 million young people, this partnership is a defining moment — one that highlights their everyday acts of good alongside the iconic “Wicked” heroines Glinda and Elphaba.

These acts can include writing a thank you note, donating to a food or clothing drive, assembling care packages, beautifying local parks or volunteering at animal shelters.

“Today’s 4-H’ers are proving you don’t need to have magical powers to change the world, you just need the courage to do good,” said Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council. “They’re helping neighbors, mentoring younger youth, and organizing food and toy drives, along with planting community and school gardens. The partnership with NBCUniversal shines a national spotlight on those everyday acts of good and invites even more people to get involved.”

A National Call to Action: #4HForGood Challenge

This fall, through a multi-platform campaign, 4-H will spotlight the many ways youth can create positive change. The centerpiece is the #4HForGood Challenge, a nationwide call to action inviting youth, families, and friends to:

• Do an act of good
• Post it on social media with a heart-hands symbol
• Tag 4 others to spread kindness
• Use the hashtag #4HForGood

The challenge will kick off on October 9th during National 4-H Week and run through November 21st. During this time, NBCUniversal will host a career day in New York City, with employees mentoring local 4-H’ers at NBCU’s famous 30 Rock headquarters.

“With ‘Wicked: For Good,’ we have a unique opportunity to harness the cultural momentum of a beloved film to inspire meaningful change,” said Hilary Smith, Executive Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility at NBCUniversal. “By partnering with 4-H, we’re turning the spotlight on young changemakers whose everyday acts of good ripple through their communities. It’s a chance to show that storytelling — especially on a scale as grand as the ‘Wicked’ films— can be a catalyst for kindness, leadership and lasting impact.”

The Tufts University longitudinal study shows youth in 4-H are:

• Nearly 4x more likely to make a positive contribution to their communities.
• 2x more likely to have the goal of being a leader.
• 2x more likely to report living life with intentionality and purpose.

To learn more and join the #4HForGood Challenge, visit Wicked for Good.

»Related: Penn. goes green as 4-H launches ‘Beyond Ready,’ 4-H Week