Four-H is the Youth Development Program of Auburn and Alabama A&M Universities delivered through the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. It is an educational program that provides organized, structured, and directed learning opportunities for youth to become leaders. Four-H provides youth, ages 5 to 19, from all economic and social backgrounds with leadership opportunities through participating in hands-on educational experiences, research projects, and group events. Programs range from traditional agricultural and farm development programs to character building programs in schools. The four H’s – head, heart, hands, and health – teach leadership skills to children and young people so they can become tomorrow’s leaders.
As part of 4-H, you will…
…be apart of an educational program which revolves around “learning by doing” projects in nearly 40 subject areas related to home and community living. You will learn about setting and achieving goals, helping others, sharing knowledge, and community involvement. You will acquire life skills that help you become competent, productive citizens.
…learn how to lead others. Four-H officers have the opportunity to make decisions about club activities, events, programs, projects, and finances. Some individuals will have the opportunity to go beyond being a club officer and run for District or State 4-H Council. Just being a 4-H member will give you the opportunity to learn the skills that you will need to become a successful leader in the future.
…compete for various types of awards. Awards are given out at club meetings as well as events such as 4-H County Round-up, Talent Show, District Round-up, and State Congress. You will also have the opportunity to try out for scholarships as a Senior 4-H’er. Also, there are doors that could open for you that could lead to top honors, out-of-state trips, summer camp, educational tours, and a variety of exciting experiences. Through the carefully structured awards program, you will learn to share your knowledge with others, learn healthy competition, and learn to achieve goals by striving to be the best that you can be.
…meet new people and develop long lasting friendships. Four-H is the largest youth organization in Alabama with more than 82,000 members. Four-H is for all youth -- urban and rural, from high and low economic backgrounds. Through 4-H club meetings, competitive events, workshops, camps, and trips, you will be able to form healthy social relationships and learn about cooperation and belonging.
…have a lot of fun! The more you put into something, the more you will get from it. Make an effort to come to extra activities such as animal clubs or parades. Make time to get to know the other 4-H’ers within our county and beyond. You make 4-H better than what it is. I hope you will continue to make it a successful youth organization for more years to come!
REMEMBER:
4-H is a sensitive thing-
It blooms where it is planted,
It grows where it is cared for.
It prospers where it is cultivated!
You should never settle for less than your best! Your 4-H experiences can be something of which you can be proud, if you always put forth your best efforts!
Make 4-H a Family Affair
Four-H can be something special for your family, too. Helping with 4-H activities is a great way for parents and youth to get together, making 4-H a real family event. Since your family members are the most important people in your life, you need to tell them about your 4-H projects and activities and get them involved.
4-H can become a part of your family’s life—a part which you can be very proud.
How can you help your Parent/Guardian get involved in 4-H?
1. Take the newsletter and handouts given to you home to your parents.
2. Ask your parents to help you pick out supplies that you need to complete a project.
3. Have your parents help you with your projects, demonstrations, and journal books.
4. Ask your family to share their knowledge on cooking, canning, sewing, woodworking, etc. Encourage them to lend you a helping hand on things such as posters.
5. Ask your parents to take pictures of your 4-H events, so that you can keep these as lasting memories of your 4-H experiences.
6. Introduce your parents to your 4-H Leader and 4-H County Agent.
7. Encourage your parents to take you to special events such as 4-H night or weekend activities.
8. Visit your County Extension Office and ask questions!
