New 4-H Programs Aim to Make Youth Off-Roading Safer Than Ever

Empowering the Next Generation of Off-Road Riders with Expanded Training and New Statewide Programs

Polaris Inc., a global leader in powersports and manufacturer of popular off-road vehicles like the RZR, XPEDITION, and Sportsman, is reinforcing its commitment to rider safety with a major donation to youth off-roading education. The company has announced a $1 million gift to the Minnesota 4-H Youth Development program to expand its already impactful ATV and UTV safety training initiatives.

Since 2019, Polaris and Minnesota 4-H have partnered to educate nearly 4,000 youth on the fundamentals of safe and responsible off-road riding. This new investment will supercharge those efforts—bringing year-round training to Minnesota and launching new pilot programs in Wisconsin and Utah.

“This generous support from Polaris will significantly expand our safety education efforts,” said Jennifer Skuza, associate dean of University of Minnesota Extension. “We anticipate a three- to fourfold increase in youth participation.”

The expanded off-roading education will offer:

• Year-round programming for Minnesota youth, increasing reach and access.
• Certification of new adult volunteers to scale training efforts.
• Pilots in Utah and Wisconsin, using Minnesota’s proven program as a model.
• A new nationwide online safety course for youth riders.

The safety curriculum includes off-roading education on responsible vehicle use, risk management, trail etiquette, and environmental stewardship. Through collaboration with the Minnesota DNR, youth participants can earn ATV and UTV certification to legally ride on public lands and trails.

Not only are students being trained—adult volunteers will also gain certification through the ATV Safety Institute’s “Train-the-Trainer” program to ensure safe practices are passed on locally.

Polaris’ support has also helped fund safety awareness displays at farm expos and fairs, reaching more than 800,000 youth through events across Minnesota.

“We share 4-H’s goal of blending outdoor experiences with safe and responsible riding,” said Pam Kermisch, Polaris Chief Customer and Growth Officer. “Expanding our efforts into new states and digital platforms is the next step in creating safer trails for everyone.”

In Utah, the new pilot program aims to create a culture of leadership and responsibility among youth off-roading education.

“Our 4-Hers are leaders in their communities,” said Dave Francis, Utah 4-H State Director. “This program helps them become ambassadors for safe, responsible riding—on the farm and on the trails.”

Polaris continues to lead the industry not just in vehicle innovation, but in promoting a safer off-road culture through youth outreach, off-roading education, and community partnership.

About the Organizations

Minnesota 4-H, part of University of Minnesota Extension, is the state’s largest youth development program, serving over 40,000 young people each year. Its hands-on, research-based education helps shape tomorrow’s leaders and innovators.

Polaris Inc. is a Minnesota-based global powersports leader known for pioneering off-road experiences through innovation. From the trail to the track, Polaris is committed to safety, adventure, and expanding the joy of riding to future generations.