What is 4-H All About?

Who Coordinates the 4-H Program?

In Colorado, 4-H is supported by Colorado State University, your local land grant university. The people who coordinate 4-H locally are the Extension Agents, supported in part by your County Commissioners.

Why Do Young People Like 4-H?
They have fun with friends at the meetings, social activities, tours, camps, and fairs. They learn to do interesting things such as how to construct a piece of furniture, redecorate their room, take pictures, or even learn about entomology. 4-H programs help youth develop life skills that will carry them forward as responsible, informed citizens and productive, thoughtful adults.

What is a 4-H club?
A 4-H club consists of at least 5 youth, one or more adults, and elected officers. Clubs usually have business meetings once a month to discuss upcoming club and county events. Clubs may also choose to do community service projects, have project meetings, or other fun activities. If new to 4-H, joining a 4-H club is the best way to get involved and “learn the ropes.”

How Often Do 4-H Clubs Meet?
Most clubs meet once a month for most months of the year. This depends on the group and what it wants to do. At some point in the 4-H year, 4-H clubs may reach maximum capacity and not have room for new members.

Where Do 4-H Clubs Meet?
Clubs meet in a convenient place large enough for the members of the group. Some clubs meet in the homes or garages of leaders or members. Some meet in a central place such as a school, church, or community room.

What are 4-H Projects?
A basic principle of the 4-H program is that learning occurs best through hands-on experience. We have something for everyone, so each member can find an area of personal interest. A list of available projects and descriptions of each can be found at www.larimer.org/ext under the “What’s Rockin’ in 4-H?” icon. Project workshops/educational tours are scheduled for many projects in the spring of each year.

Are Projects Done Entirely by the Member, or can Assistance be Provided?
Both. Some activities are more fun when done as a group. Others will be done individually by each member of the group.

How Much Does A 4-H Project Cost?
Project costs vary. A member enrolled in some projects might use supplies and equipment from around the house to practice skills they are learning and incur no additional expenses. Members who buy and keep a horse may invest hundreds of dollars. Discuss costs as you select your project. It should be realistic to the family situation. For helpful information regarding approximate project costs, go to The Clover 4-H Project Selection Guide and click on the type of project you are interested in.

What do 4-H Clubs Do at Meetings?
4-H clubs usually do four types of activities: project work, business meetings, recreation or social activities, and/or community service and special interest programs. Not all of these have to be done at each meeting, so it can vary.

 

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