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Alabama 4-H kids peaking from behind trees in a forest

Alabama 4-H has multiple delivery modes to ensure that we are providing access and opportunity to all youth. The primary delivery modes are clubs, enrichment, camping, in-school clubs, and individual study.

Clubs

Organized group of at least five youth, led by trained adults, with a planned program that is carried on throughout the year or most of the year with at least five regular meetings. 4-H focus is on a variety of self-chosen learning experiences and activities, may meet in any location, has elected youth officers, and has a set of governing rules approved by the membership. 4-H clubs typically meet after school, evenings, or on weekends.

The purpose of 4-H clubs is to provide positive youth development opportunities to meet the needs of young people to experience belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity–the Essential Elements–and to foster educational opportunities tied to the land grant university knowledge base.

Enrichment

4-H enrichment is organized groups of youth receiving a sequence or one time learning experience as part of Alabama Extension outreach associated with any of the following programs:

  • Agronomic Crops
  • Animal Science and Forages
  • Commercial Horticulture
  • Community Resource Development
  • Consumer Science and Personal Finance Management
  • Family and Child Development
  • Farm Management and Agriculture Enterprise Analysis
  • Food Safety, Preparation, and Preservation

Programming may be delivered in cooperation with school officials, youth serving organizations, and other local, state, or federal partners.

Camping

Because 4-H camping is education-based, it is recognized as a delivery mode with Alabama 4-H. As defined by the American Campaign Association, and as accepted by Alabama 4-H, “organized camping is a sustained experience that provides creative, recreational, and educational opportunities in group living in the out-of-doors. It utilizes trained leadership and the resources of natural surroundings to contribute to each camper’s mental, physical, social, and spiritual growth.” A 4-H camper is any youth who is registered for a 4-H sponsored residential or day camping event through the local Extension office and meets the 4-H age and eligibility requirements.

In-School Clubs

Organized group of youth in fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth grades led by trained adults, with a planned program that is carried on during the school year. Clubs meet during school hours, for no less than 30 minutes, and have elected officers.

Individual Study

Planned learning that occurs independently of a formal group setting, self-directed, and under the supervision of adults in any 4-H subject matter/project area. Examples include self study, home study, and project book work. The primary purpose of 4-H individual study is to involve youth in a new and non-traditional 4-H environment tailored to meet their specific personal needs.

 

Download a PDF of 4-H Independent Membership Guidelines and Agreement, 4HYD-2163.

 

For questions about accessibility or to request accommodations, contact Extension Communications and Marketing at 334-844-5696 or extcomm@aces.edu.