4-H CAPITAL is an exciting program designed to reduce children’s risk for school failure and school drop out by increasing science and literacy skills and promoting healthy growth and development.

Started in 1992, 4-H CAPITAL targets youth and their families in Austin providing hands-on learning experiences that will reduce risk taking behaviors and increase opportunities to become successful adults.

The Travis County CAPITAL AmeriCorps Project began in 2003 in response to the growing need for high-quality enrichment out-of-school time programs. Long waiting lists for 4-H CAPITAL programs and increasing numbers of youth and families with social and economic stressors illustrated the need for a strategy to fill the many unmet needs.

Service to America is a time-honored tradition that brings needed resources to communities. Through this national service program AmeriCorps members strengthen communities and local organizations.

The 10 full-time and 12 part-time Travis County CAPITAL AmeriCorps Project members are directly responsible for the phenomenal growth of 4-H afterschool – from 30 to more than 100 programs per week. Collaboration with Austin Independent School District’s Prime Time and 21st Century grant-funding allowed for expansion to schools new to the 4-H program.

No one is surprised by the AmeriCorps members’ enthusiasm and "Getting Things Done" attitude. The commitment to community strengthening is apparent in the quality of programs, dedication to achievement, and willingness to "go the extra mile in meeting the needs of the students".