What is 4-H?

4-H is a youth development program for kids ages 5 to 18 that empowers youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults.

4-H members participate in local 4-H clubs, 4-H school programs or 4-H outreach programs where they learn new skills, make new friends and have fun. Within community clubs, youth attend meetings, complete projects, practice public speaking and do community service.

Why Participate in 4-H?

Research shows that young people who participate in 4-H clubs:

• Do better in school
• Are more motivated to help others
• Develop skills in leadership, public speaking, self-esteem, communication and planning
• Make lasting friendships.

Through real-life situations, 4-H helps youth develop life skills such as: communication, citizenship, decision-making, leadership, interpersonal relations and community and global awareness. Youth learn these practical skills through hundreds of projects like cooking, wildlife, livestock, model rocketry, sewing, archery and shooting sports, art, photography, computers, leathercraft, outdoor adventure and many more.

Who Can Participate in 4-H Community Clubs?

Any youth with a 4-H age of 8 to 18 is eligible to participate in community 4-H clubs. 4-H age is defined as a child’s age on December 31 of the particular enrollment year. The 4-H enrollment year is October 1st through September 30th. Children ages 5 to 7 are eligible to participate in Cloverbuds, a non-competitive introduction to the 4-H experience.

 How Much Does it Cost to Participate in 4-H?

The 4-H enrollment fee is $20 per child. Shooting Sports members pay an additional $10 annual fee. Families will spend some money for project supplies. Enrollment scholarships are available for families in need. Contact the office for details.

I’d Like to Participate, How Do I Enroll?

If you’re interested in participating in the 4-H community club program, follow the steps below to learn more and get enrolled.

1. Browse the Clubs section of this webpage or talk to your local contact or the Area Extension Office to find out about your local club meetings and their project focus areas.

2. Browse the Projects section of this website to determine which projects your family wants to participate in. We recommend that new members select between 1 and 3 projects. If you have questions about a project, contact your Area Extension Office for more information.

3. Visit Colorado 4-H Online, our enrollment website and follow the directions for new users. Use the tips listed below to help you enroll.

4. Pay your enrollment fees. 4-H members pay $20 per year to participate in 4-H. This helps cover administrative costs and pays for your project manuals. Enrollment fees can be paid in person (cash, check or card) at the Colorado State University Morgan County Extension Office.

5. Attend your local club meetings, start working on projects, and begin discovering the fun that is 4-H!