Missouri 4-H empowers young people to reach their full potential.

Regional 4-H Clubs

Howell County 4-H clubs

Lucky Clover 4-H Club

Club leader: Julie Hart

Ozark County 4-H clubs

Gainesville 4-H Club

Club Leader: Nick Sanchez

Dusty Boots

Club Leader: Kathleen Johnson Finnemore

Dora 4-H Club 

Club leader: Paula Bodenhamer

Douglas County 4-H clubs

Ava 4-H Club

Club leader: John Branstetter

Bears Den

Club leader: Kristy Elliott

Up ‘N’ At ‘t

Club leaders: Missy Rogers, Sarah Long, Michele Melton

The Howell County 4-H recognition and awards program provides a variety of individual recognition and awards to meet the diverse needs and interests of today's youth. The program was developed using the National 4-H Recognition Model, which is categorized in five divisions:

  • Participation
  • Standards of excellence
  • Peer competition
  • Progress towards personal goals
  • Cooperation

The Howell County 4-H recognition and awards program is outlined in the county's 4-H recognition and award policy (PDF).

About 4-H

4-H brings young people, ages 5 to 18, 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 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 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 and 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.

Joining 4-H is as easy as contacting your local extension office. 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 Oct. 1 to Sept. 30. Certain activities may have participation deadlines.

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 fundraisers. 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.

LEARN MORE