4-H youth from across Virginia will have new opportunities to learn valuable life skills this summer, thanks to more than $825,000 donated by Tractor Supply Co. customers earlier this year.

Between Apr. 26 and May 7, Suffolk-area Tractor Supply stores hosted a Paper Clover fundraiser to help send thousands of 4-H youth to county-level development programs, camps and leadership conferences.

Awarded as scholarships, the money will enable individual 4-H members to learn everything from science and technology to fishing and horseback riding.

“The value of our partnership with National 4-H Council is never more clear than during the Paper Clover Campaign,” said Christi Korzekwa, senior vice president of marketing at Tractor Supply Co.

“Our dedicated team members and loyal customers continue to show outstanding support for 4-H programs that teach children life skills in science, healthy living and citizenship empowering them to thrive today and tomorrow.”

This is the eighth year of the semi-annual Paper Clover Campaign. The partnership between Tractor Supply and National 4-H Council has generated more than $11 million in funding over its history, due in large part to the commitment of 4-H groups.

This year, individual 4-H Clubs greeted customers at stores and held their own promotions, including greenhouse sales, 4-H alumni events and social media challenges.

“So many Tractor Supply customers have a true passion for 4-H and want to help our country’s next generation of leaders gain the skills they need to succeed,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and chief executive officer of the National 4-H Council.

“By emphasizing individual development and group dynamics through hands-on learning and team challenges, 4-H youth programs can do just that.”