In response to the need for evidence of 4-H impact on youth development, a national, randomly selected adult sample--710 former 4-H members, 743 former members of other youth organizations, and 309 nonparticipants in youth organizations--was contacted by telephone in 1985. The life skills perspective was utilized to measure the impact of 4-H in helping young people develop the basic competency, coping, and contributory life skills needed to become self-directing, productive, and contributing members of society. Those who had joined 4-H and other youth groups were similar in personal characteristics, but different from the nonparticipants. Activities, organized clubs, and competition were the most popular forms of 4-H participation. 4-H alumni most valued the inputs and teachings of adult volunteer leaders, family members, and club meetings. Generally, those who participated the longest, joined at an early age, and were female were the most satisfied with their 4-H experience. 4-H membership was rated by alumni as having a high, positive image, but three factors were identified which could improve the growth and impact of 4-H: enhance visibility of 4-H to all youth; recognize different needs of older youth; and couple development of leadership skills with leadership opportunities. Bar graphs supplement the text. (BRDR)