For generations, Oklahoma 4-H has helped young people build confidence, develop leadership skills and explore future careers through hands-on learning. A long-standing partnership with the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma (MCFOK) has expanded those opportunities, giving thousands of youth access to programs that shape both skills and perspective.
Since 2020, MCFOK has invested more than $1 million in Oklahoma 4-H through an endowment supporting Oklahoma 4-H Roundup and STEM programming, along with annual support for the Oklahoma 4-H Innovate Summit.
"Through their generous philanthropic support, our wonderful friends at Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma have empowered 4-H youth to gain invaluable STEM training and experience Oklahoma 4-H Roundup held annually in July on the beautiful Oklahoma State University campus in Stillwater," said Milford H. Jenkins, executive director of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation.
"Each year Oklahoma 4-H is immeasurably humbled by the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma's charitable investments in our 4-H youth and programs."
Supporting Oklahoma 4-H’s Youth Experience
Between 2020 and 2021, MCFOK established a $1 million endowment to support Oklahoma 4-H Roundup and STEM programming delivered through Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development.
The endowment helps offset rising program costs and sustain one of the organization’s most significant traditions.
Held each July on the Oklahoma State University campus in Stillwater, Oklahoma 4-H Roundup serves as the capstone of the 4-H year. The event brings together youth from across the state for workshops, competitions, leadership development and recognition.
In 2026, Oklahoma 4-H Roundup will mark its 105th anniversary.
A highlight of the event is MCFOK Honor Night, which recognizes outstanding 4-H members from across Oklahoma.
For many students, Oklahoma 4-H Roundup is both a celebration and a turning point. Participants report building skills in leadership, communication and teamwork while exploring topics such as financial literacy, public speaking, floral design, self-defense and technology.
They also describe gaining confidence and perspective, along with lessons in perseverance and learning from failure.
Training the Next Generation of STEM Leaders
MCFOK has also contributed more than $100,000 over the past five years to support the Oklahoma 4-H Innovate Summit.
The program prepares youth to teach STEM workshops in their own counties, turning participants into educators and peer leaders.
That approach has helped expand its reach significantly.
In 2022, Oklahoma 4-H Innovators reached 2,859 youth. By 2025, that number had grown to more than 20,000 across the state.
Rather than only learning STEM concepts, participants are trained to teach them.
"I loved getting to meet new friends, see how others do things and learn how they can easily be applied in my county," one participant said.
Another added, "I love that the training was so hands on and informative. I am so excited to share what I learned."
Others pointed to gains in confidence and problem-solving skills.
"I am more capable in engineering than I thought," one Innovator said.
Dr. Kelly Wardlaw, Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development STEM specialist, said the program’s strength lies in how quickly youth step into leadership roles after training.
That model creates a ripple effect as students bring STEM education back to their local communities.
Expanding Opportunities Through Ignite
MCFOK’s support has also helped Oklahoma youth participate in the National 4-H Council’s Ignite Conference, where they engage with peers from across the country and explore STEM careers.
In 2025, Oklahoma sent seven youth delegates and two chaperones. In 2026, participation increased to 10 youth and two chaperones.
For many students, Ignite broadens their understanding of leadership and opportunity.
"Each year, I attended the national 4-H event, where I taught workshops, shared my passion and learned from others," said Amberly Gilmore. "These experiences did not just give me skills. They gave me a vision of what leadership can be."
Kate Wardlaw said the experience influenced her career path.
"This experience has inspired me to pursue a career as a teacher or 4-H educator," she said.
Others described the impact of connecting with youth from across the country.
"I had the opportunity to connect with members from across the country, including a group from American Samoa," said Kara Wardlaw. "It reminded me how connected and impactful our 4-H community is nationwide."
Participants also returned home with renewed confidence and motivation.
"There was something really special about being in a place where everyone encouraged each other to dream bigger," said Tori Nelms.
Rebekah Gilmore added, "It gave me the confidence to step up and not wait for someone else to lead."
Today, many of those students are applying what they learned by helping develop STEM for Y’all, a conference for 4-H members in grades 3 through 8, and STEM Storytime, a program that pairs children’s books with hands-on STEM activities.
Investing in Oklahoma’s Future
Across Oklahoma 4-H Roundup, STEM programming and national leadership experiences, MCFOK’s support is helping expand access and opportunity for Oklahoma 4-H youth.
The impact is seen in growing participation, expanding STEM outreach and the number of students returning home prepared to teach and lead.
For Oklahoma 4-H, the partnership is measured not just in programs supported, but in young people gaining the skills and confidence to make a difference in their communities.
MCFOK’s investment continues to help ensure those opportunities remain available for the next generation of Oklahoma youth.
