The 4-H Foundation was started in 1961 by a 4-H program staff member. Aware of the great importance of "learning by doing," K.C. Lovejoy started an initiative to form an endowment -- a source of funding that would support 4-H forever. The foundation uses the interest created from the originally invested funds to support the annual activities of the Maine 4-H Program. Some monies are used for operating costs, and others, such as scholarships, grants, and special trips, are funded in accordance with the wishes of our donors. See a list of available funds.