By 1934, 4-H leaders recognized the need to expand, as 40% of eligible farm youth were active members. The Great Depression had a significant affect on 4-H in Black Hawk County. Two groups of young people emerged, one composed of high school graduates who could not afford college and the other made up of college graduates waiting for openings in their chosen fields. Both of these groups needed a forum to come together in discussion and 4-H held the potential to meet their needs. 4-H was also looked to at this time as a source of wholesome recreation that could counter "the allure of dine and dance, beer parlors, and moviehouses which beckon to restless and energetic youth."

    As 4-H blossomed in Black Hawk County, there were several outstanding accomplishments by 4-Hers from the county. Most notable were the exploits of the 1935 Black Hawk County 4-H livestock judging team and its outstanding member Vincent Kelley. The team won the national championship and took second place at the Royal Agriculture Show in Bristol, England. Kelley took top individual honors at the national competition and tied for first place at the Royal Agriculture Show. The local Farm Bureau proclaimed that he had "compiled the greatest record in the judging of livestock and dairy cattle of any boy in the history of 4-H club work in the United States."