4-H and 4-H Clover Kids are University of Missouri Extension youth development programs that reach young people, ages 5-18. 4-H empowers them to learn and grow in a fun way as they work with adult partners helping to create competent, capable, caring and contributing youth in our communities.

There are five community clubs in Macon County. Members attend monthly meetings where they elect officers, plan educational programs of business, community service projects and they learn together about parliamentary procedures, leadership, communication and other skills that are helpful throughout life. In addition, members enroll in projects that they are interested in. Projects range from beef and sewing to robotics and computers. For a complete listing of projects and other valuable information regarding 4-H, check out the 4-H Clover.

Macon County 4-H clubs

Atlanta Home Pioneers 4-H Club meets at the Atlanta Baptist Church on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Club leaders: Diedre Weldon, Aaron Baker

Bevier Buck a Roos 4-H Club meets at 7 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month at the Community of Christ Church in Bevier or Coulson residence. Club leader: Brenda Coulson

Callao Shamrocks 4-H Club meets at 6:00 p.m. on the third Friday of the month at the Callao Christian Church Youth Center in Callao.

Macon Long Branch Trailblazers meets at 2:00 on the second Sunday at the Macon United Methodist Church. Club leader: Megan Pollard

Macon Easy Riders 4-H Club meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month at the Crossroads Christian Church in Macon. Club leaders: Rachelle Chiarottino, Cassie Young, Becca Morris

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.

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Macon County 4-H news and resources