University of Missouri Extension 4-H
Empowering young people to reach their full potential
4-H brings young people, ages 5 to 19, and adults together to learn everyday skills through hands-on learning. Working on activities from animal and plant sciences to robotics, 4-H’ers learn problem-solving skills that can make a positive impact upon our community. Through 4-H, young people learn to:
- meet the diverse challenges of today’s world;
- build self-confidence;
- learn responsibility; and
- make positive decisions.
4-H clubs
4-H clubs are open to ages 8 to 18. Clubs meet monthly for group activities and club business. Each
club elects officers and has an approved adult leader who supervises club activities. Club members also
enroll in projects in their areas of interest.
With projects on more than 75 topics, 4-H has something to interest every child. Here are just a few of the opportunities 4-H offers—geocaching,
robotics, international exchanges, horsemanship, pets, starting a business, arts and crafts, raising animals, woodworking, photography and gardening.
Clover Kids clubs
Clover Kids introduces 5- to 7-year-olds to the 4-H experience. In Clover Kids, children
learn how to get along with others, work in groups, explore their interests, while building self-confidence. Clover Kids do not enroll in projects or
raise animals, and do not participate in competitive events, contests or shows.
How to join
Joining 4-H is as easy as contacting the extension center. A staff member will explain the enrollment process and membership dues. In addition to dues, some projects
may require a small investment to get started, and there may be a fee for materials, trips or other activities.
Young people are welcome to join at any time. The 4-H program year runs from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31. Certain activities may have participation deadlines.
Resources
Y630, 4-H Member Enrollment Form (PDF)
Y640, Youth Health Statement, Parent Consent and Event Acceptance
Form (PDF)
Missouri 4-H
Clover—A guide to 4-H projects, activities and
publications. It is designed to assist volunteers, members and their
families select projects and activities, and set goals.
Be a 4-H volunteer
Adult volunteers are essential to 4-H. Adult volunteers serve as club or project leaders, help with county or regional events, chair
committees and organize fund raisers. You don't have to be a parent or grandparent of the 4-H member to get involved. All volunteers are
screened for child abuse and neglect, as well criminal records, before they are accepted and each year thereafter. As a volunteer,
University of Missouri Extension will provide you with training so you will be well-prepared and successful as an adult leader. The
orientation includes information on 4-H history and the educational framework, the characteristics of age groups, character development and safety.